Caernarfon Castle
Wales
Caernarfon Castle is a medieval fortress located in Gwynedd, north-west Wales, originally built as a motte-and-bailey castle in the late 11th century. King Edward I began constructing the current stone structure in 1283 to serve as an administrative center for north Wales, deliberately linking it to the region's Roman past near the Segontium fort. The castle features massive walls inspired by the Walls of Constantinople, reflecting its strategic and symbolic importance. While the exterior appears complete, many interior buildings no longer survive and some parts were never finished. The castle endured attacks during Welsh uprisings in the late 13th and early 15th centuries but was never captured after being recaptured in 1295. Its military significance declined after the Tudor dynasty came to power, leading to neglect and disrepair. During the English Civil War, it was held by Royalists and besieged multiple times, marking its last military use. Restored in the 19th century, Caernarfon Castle hosted the investiture ceremonies of the Prince of Wales in 1911 and 1969. Today, managed by Cadw, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd," attracting visitors with its rich history and imposing architecture.
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Tip: Visit Caernarfon Castle during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Booking tickets in advance through the official Cadw website is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and special events like the Prince of Wales investiture anniversaries. Discounted rates are often available for children, seniors, and families. Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the castle’s extensive walls and grounds involves walking on uneven surfaces. Guided tours provide deeper historical insights and enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •Caernarfon Castle’s walls were inspired by the Walls of Constantinople, reflecting a deliberate imperial symbolism.
- •The castle was the site of the investiture of Prince Charles as Prince of Wales in 1969.
- •Despite its imposing exterior, many interior buildings of the castle were never completed or have not survived.
- •The castle was besieged three times during the English Civil War, marking its last use in warfare.
- •Caernarfon Castle is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other castles and town walls built by King Edward I in Gwynedd.
History
The site of Caernarfon Castle was first fortified by the Romans with the Segontium fort in the early centuries AD.
A Norman motte-and-bailey castle was established in the late 11th century following the Norman conquest of England and expansion into Wales.
King Edward I began rebuilding the castle in stone in 1283 as part of his campaign to subdue Wales, creating a grand fortress and town with strong symbolic ties to Roman imperial power.
The castle withstood attacks during Welsh uprisings in 1294 and the Glyndŵr Rising (1400–1415).
Its military importance waned after the Tudor dynasty's rise in 1485, leading to neglect.
It saw military action during the English Civil War but was later restored in the 19th century and became a ceremonial site for royal investitures in the 20th century.
Place Guide
The Eagle Tower1283-1330
One of the most prominent towers of Caernarfon Castle, the Eagle Tower features distinctive polygonal turrets and was designed to symbolize imperial power and royal authority.
The King's GateLate 13th century
The main entrance to the castle, heavily fortified and designed to impress visitors with its grandeur and strength, serving both defensive and ceremonial purposes.
The Curtain Walls1283-1330
Massive defensive walls surrounding the castle and the adjacent town, inspired by the Walls of Constantinople, featuring multiple towers and battlements.
Contact
Phone: 0300 025 2239
