A-Z Placefinder
Towns of Kilkenny
Callan —County Kilkenny
Callan, in the centre of a fertile plain, is an ancient market town, founded by William the Marshal in 1217. The name derives from Niall Caille, High King. He drowned in the King's River during a battle with the Danes in 844. The river, which serves the town, was also named to commemorate this particular king. He is buried at Kilree.
The town was strongly fortified in mediaeval times. Corporate rights were granted to the town in 1271. In 1408 there was a battle here in which the Prince of Ossory and 800 of his men were slain by the English.
Within 25kms of here
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Maria Edgeworth Literary Festival
