Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd in United Kingdom

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
CADW: Welsh Historic Monuments
Welsh Castles of Edward I

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1986
Size of heritage: 6.00 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: -3,723°
Latitude: 53,140°

Summary

The castles of Beaumaris and Harlech (largely the work of the greatest military engineer of the time, James of St George) and the fortified complexes of Caernarfon and Conwy are located in the former principality of Gwynedd, in north Wales. These extremely well-preserved monuments are examples of the colonization and defence works carried out throughout the reign of Edward I (1272–1307) and the military architecture of the time.

Location on Map

Show bigger map on Openstreetmap

Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd

The Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Gwynedd, North Wales, United Kingdom. This site comprises a collection of castles and fortified towns built by King Edward I of England during the late 13th century. It is a testament to the military and architectural prowess of the time and provides a glimpse into the turbulent history of the region.

History

The construction of these castles and town walls was part of King Edward I's campaign to conquer and subdue the Welsh princes and assert English dominance over the region. The project began in 1277 and continued for several decades. The castles were strategically positioned to control key routes and provide a stronghold for English forces.

The most prominent castles within the site include Caernarfon, Conwy, Beaumaris, and Harlech. Caernarfon Castle, built on the site of a former Norman motte-and-bailey castle, was intended as a royal palace and seat of government. Conwy Castle, situated on a rocky outcrop, guarded the Conwy estuary and provided a vital link between North Wales and the rest of the country. Beaumaris Castle, although unfinished, is considered a masterpiece of military architecture, while Harlech Castle, perched on a cliff, played a crucial role in the Welsh uprising against English rule.

Current State

Today, the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd are well-preserved and offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore medieval fortifications. The castles, with their imposing stone walls, towers, and gatehouses, evoke a sense of grandeur and power. The town walls, which encircle the historic centers of Conwy and Caernarfon, provide a glimpse into the daily life of the medieval inhabitants.

Caernarfon Castle, in particular, stands as a symbol of English dominance and authority. Its polygonal towers, color-coded stones, and impressive Eagle Tower make it a popular tourist attraction. The castle also houses the Museum of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, showcasing the military history of the region.

Conwy Castle, with its commanding position overlooking the town and estuary, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore its towers, walk along the battlements, and learn about the castle's history through informative displays.

Beaumaris Castle, despite being unfinished, is a remarkable example of concentric castle design. Its moat, inner and outer walls, and symmetrical layout demonstrate the architectural ingenuity of the time. The castle is open to the public, and guided tours provide insights into its construction and historical context.