Caernarfon Castle is a majestic fortress situated in the town of Caernarfon in North Wales. Built in the late 13th century by King Edward I of England, the castle played a significant role in the history of Wales and the United Kingdom. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History of Caernarfon Castle
The castle was built between 1283 and 1292 as part of King Edward I’s campaign to conquer Wales and establish English rule over the Welsh people. The castle was strategically placed on the banks of the River Seiont, and its imposing walls and towers served as a symbol of English power and authority in the region.
The castle’s construction was overseen by Master James of St. George, a renowned architect and military engineer who also designed several other castles and fortifications in Wales and England. Caernarfon Castle was designed to be both a military stronghold and a royal palace, and its impressive architecture reflects the wealth and power of the English monarchy.
Famous Battles
Throughout its history, Caernarfon Castle played a crucial role in several famous battles and conflicts. During the Welsh uprising of 1294, the castle was attacked by Welsh rebels led by Madog ap Llywelyn, who attempted to reclaim Wales from English rule. Although the castle was heavily damaged during the siege, it ultimately withstood the attack, and Madog was captured and executed.
During the English Civil War in the 17th century, Caernarfon Castle was once again at the center of a major conflict. The castle was held by Royalist forces who were loyal to King Charles I, while nearby Conwy Castle was held by Parliamentarian forces. In 1646, the Parliamentarians launched a successful attack on the castle, and it was later used as a prison for captured Royalist soldiers.
Over the centuries, Caernarfon Castle was home to several famous characters and historical figures. One of the most notable was Prince Charles, who was invested as the Prince of Wales at the castle in 1969. The investiture ceremony was attended by thousands of people and was broadcast around the world.
Another famous figure associated with Caernarfon Castle was Owain Glyndwr, a Welsh rebel leader who fought against English rule in the early 15th century. Glyndwr proclaimed himself the Prince of Wales in 1400 and launched a rebellion against King Henry IV. He briefly captured Caernarfon Castle in 1404 before being driven out by English forces.
Celtic Past
The area surrounding Caernarfon Castle is rich with prehistoric ruins that give insight into the region’s Celtic past. One of the most impressive of these ruins is the nearby Segontium Roman Fort, which dates back to the 1st century AD and was once a major military base for the Romans.
But even before the Romans, the area was inhabited by the Celtic tribe known as the Ordovices. They were known for their fierce resistance to Roman conquest and their rich culture, which is reflected in the many prehistoric ruins found in the region. These include the nearby hillfort of Dinas Dinlle, which dates back to the Iron Age and is believed to have been a major stronghold of the Ordovices.
Other notable prehistoric ruins near Caernarfon Castle include the Druid’s Circle at Bryn Celli Ddu, which is believed to date back to the Neolithic period and was once used for religious ceremonies by the Celts. There is also the Llyn Cerrig Bach archaeological site, which features an array of artifacts from the Iron Age, including pottery, jewelry, and weapons.
These prehistoric ruins provide a glimpse into the rich Celtic history of the region and are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who once called Caernarfon their home.
Lesser-known Facts
One lesser-known fact about Caernarfon Castle is that it was used as a film location for several movies and TV shows, including the popular TV series “Game of Thrones“. The castle’s impressive architecture and historic setting make it a popular choice for filmmakers looking to create epic battle scenes and medieval settings.
As the centuries progressed, Caernarfon Castle continued to play a significant role in Welsh history. It was used as a base for the rebellion of Owain Glyndwr against the English crown during the early 15th century. The castle was captured by Glyndwr in 1404, but was later retaken by the English in 1409. During the English Civil War in the mid-17th century, the castle was garrisoned by royalist forces, but ultimately fell to the parliamentarians.
In the centuries that followed, Caernarfon Castle was used as a courthouse and a military barracks, and even served as a storage facility for gunpowder during the Napoleonic Wars. In the 20th century, the castle was extensively restored and is now a major tourist attraction.
Visiting Caernarfon Castle
Today, Caernarfon Castle is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its extensive grounds and learn about its rich history. Guided tours are available, and there are a variety of exhibits on display throughout the castle.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many towers, walk along its ramparts, and visit the Great Hall, which has been beautifully restored to its original medieval grandeur. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby Snowdonia National Park.
There are a number of amenities available for visitors, including a gift shop, a café, and on-site parking. The castle is open year-round, although hours may vary depending on the season. Admission fees apply, with discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
Places to Stay near Caernarfon Castle
