Wales is a country of beauty, but for many it is also the home of many castles. There are so many castles in Wales it’s hard to keep track! Some of the most interesting are the Castles of North Wales. Read on for more information about these fascinating structures! Remember you can stay at Caernarfon Hotel while in the area.
1) Conwy Castle
It has been said that Conwy Castle was built to provide protection for Conwy town and also as an alarm against invasion. This castle is actually one of eight castles built by Edward I to subdue Wales and to maintain control over them. It seems Edward had either learned from his mistakes or wanted revenge because, when compared to most other castles in Wales, you could say he made it tough on himself by building it in such isolation. The construction started in 1283 and took around fifteen years to finish which meant Edward was pretty much getting his own back on Welsh rebels who repeatedly attacked his other castles.
2) Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle is one of the preserved castles in North Wales. The original structure was built by Edward I after he conquered Wales in 1282, but much has been added to it since then. The castle’s status as head of the territory for many centuries made it so that Caernarfon was not only an influential site but also contains immense cultural significance. When you take into account its associations with Welsh heritage and culture, combined with its traditional military usage, as well as its dramatic medieval architecture, it’s not hard to see why many people are drawn to Caernarfon.
3) Harlech Castle
Harlech Castle built by Edward I on an outcrop overlooking the bay, it has been called ‘one of his most perfect pieces of architecture’. Today’s visitor can explore the different levels of the castle (above ground) and panoramic views across Snowdonia. The castle has been home to England’s Prince of Wales since 2010.
4) Beaumaris Castle
Beaumaris Castle is in Bangor, Gwynedd and was designed to be one of Edward I’s Welsh fortresses. It was built between 1295 and 1330 by Edward I as part of his campaign to conquer north Wales. Successive Norman and English kings were unable to maintain their grasp on an increasingly independent Welsh population. Beaumaris Castle was not finished when work stopped in 1330.
5) Dolbadarn Castle
Dolbadarn Castle is an example of an authentic Welsh Castle. It has never been rebuilt but you can still find bits and pieces all over site. Definitley worth avisit.
