The Tholsel in Kilkenny City, Ireland is a distinctive and famous landmark of the city. The word Tholsel may have come from the Norman words Toll which means tax and Sael which means hall. Located on High Street it houses the offices of Kilkenny Corporation and is known as the Town Hall. In former times the Tholsel served as a court house, a custom-house, a guildhall and a civic centre.
The ‘Big Ben’ chimes from the clock in the lantern tower of the Tholsel can be heard throughout the city every 15 minutes. Visitors can enjoy views of the city from the viewing platform in the tower. To the front of the building is the double five arch arcade covering the street pavement.
Since the 14th century there have been three Tholsels in Kilkenny. The present one was built by Alderman William Colles in 1761. Having been badly damaged by fire 1985 it was completely restored and reopened in February 1987.
The Tholsel in Kilkenny City was gutted by fire in 1985 On This Day.
The Tholsel, Kilkenny by National Library of Ireland on The Commons on 1870-01-01 00:00:00
The Tholsel Kilkenny
Photo by Xavier E Traité
The Tholsel, High St, Kilkenny (506863) by Bob Linsdell on 2015-06-11 10:29:00