Standing on Rose Inn Street in Kilkenny City, the Shee Alms House is one of Ireland’s best-preserved examples of Elizabethan charitable architecture. It was founded in 1582 by Sir Richard Shee, a wealthy Norman-Irish merchant and prominent member of one of Kilkenny’s most influential families.

Built in the Tudor style, the alms house was established to provide shelter for twelve destitute people — six men and six women — at a time when the Reformation had led to the closure of many Catholic poor houses and monasteries. Sir Richard’s foundation ensured that those left without support could still find refuge and sustenance. The men were accommodated on the ground floor, while the women occupied the upper floor, each with a small private cubicle and meals provided at the expense of the Shee family.

Over the centuries, the building passed through successive generations of the Shee family, who continued to maintain it as an almshouse. According to local tradition, however, Sir Richard is said to have laid a curse upon the property, vowing that misfortune would befall any descendant who allowed the house to pass out of family ownership.

Whether coincidence or curse, the Shee family’s fortunes did eventually decline. The house changed hands many times after the 18th century and was ultimately acquired by Kilkenny Corporation in 1978, after which it was carefully restored and reopened as a heritage site and museum.

Yet even today, stories persist that something of the old curse still lingers. Staff and visitors have reported strange occurrences within its thick stone walls – unexplained footsteps, sudden drops in temperature, and most curiously, a recurring leak of water that seems to seep through the walls despite no traceable source. Engineers and restorers have investigated the phenomenon without success, leading some to wonder whether the spirit of Sir Richard still keeps a watchful eye on his charitable foundation – and on anyone who dares to interfere with it.