Thursday, 13 October 2011

The castles of Wales



 http://www.castlewales.com/
Castles in Wales were mainly built by the English to control the Welsh.

CAERPHILLY CASTLE



Caerphilly castle dates from the 13th century. It was the first concentric castle in Britain (defensive walls surrounded by defensive walls) and is considered one of the greatest medieval castles in the world.

CAERNARFON CASTLE

Caernarfon castle (13th century) was built with an unusual number of towers. In 1969, Caernarfon served as the location for the investiture of Charles, Prince of Wales.

CONWY CASTLE
Castle Conwy was sited to overlook the River Conwy and control its traffic both for supply and defensive purposes.

HARLECH CASTLE




Harlech Castle is one of the great castles Edward I built to enforce his rule over the Welsh. Situated high upon a rocky outcrop, its seaward side was defended by sheer cliffs, while a deep moat protected the other sides. It was designed by Master James of St George, who personally supervised its construction, ensuring that the vast fortress was completed in just seven years (1283-1290).

BEAUMARIS CASTLE

Beaumaris Castle on the Island of Anglesey is the great unfinished masterpiece. It was built by the English monarch Edward I, to stamp his authority on the Welsh. But it was never finished money and supplies ran out before the fortifications reached their full height. Begun in 1295, it was also the last.

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