Caernarfon Castle United Kingdom

Legendary

Explore this grand medieval castle that dates back to the 11th century.

Photo by Hefin Owen

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King Edward I once brought his pregnant wife, Queen Eleanor, to Caernarfon Castle so their child could be born there on purpose. Their son became the first English Prince of Wales, a title still used today.

Construction began in 1283, after King Edward I of England conquered Wales. He built Caernarfon along with several other massive castles to help control the region.

The castle was designed to look powerful and important, echoing the style of ancient Roman buildings. Edward wanted it to be more than just a fortress. He wanted it to be a symbol of English rule.

In 1294, Welsh rebels led by Madog ap Llywelyn managed to capture the castle during an uprising. English forces took it back the following year and kept building.

Construction continued for decades, finally finishing in 1330. By then, the project had cost an enormous amount of money, far more than most castles built around the same time.

The castle faced more attacks in the early 1400s, during a Welsh uprising led by Owain Glyndŵr. It held strong despite being besieged multiple times.

In 1485, the Tudor dynasty took the English throne. Since the Tudors had Welsh roots, tensions between England and Wales began to ease, and castles like Caernarfon became less important for defense.

The castle's last real military action came during the English Civil War, fought between 1642 and 1648. Caernarfon was held by forces loyal to the king and was besieged three times before finally surrendering.

Walk along the massive castle walls for sweeping views over the town and the water below. Climb the Eagle Tower, one of the castle's most impressive structures. Visit during the summer, when the castle sometimes hosts historical reenactments and events for families.