The Tholsel, Kilkenny

The Tholsel, also known as City Hall, is a historic municipal building located on High Street. Originally serving as the meeting place for Kilkenny Borough Council until its dissolution in 2014, the first tholsel, or guildhall, on this site possibly dates back to the 14th century. It played a role in significant historical events, including the execution of Petronilla de Meath in 1324.

A second tholsel was built in 1579 in the Renaissance style, and by the mid-18th century, a decision was made to construct a new neoclassical-style building, which stands today. Unfortunately, the Tholsel faced a fire in 1985 but was successfully restored and reopened in 1987. It housed the council chamber until the amalgamation with Kilkenny County Council in 2014.

The Tholsel holds important historical documents, including The Primus Kilkenniensis, or First Book of Kilkenny, printed in the late 14th century, incorporating a charter from William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, in the early 13th century.