Ystrad Meurig Castle

Castell Ystrad Meurig stands among rolling hills near the village of Ystrad Meurig in central Ceredigion. Built around 1116 by Norman lord Gilbert de Clare, it began as an earth-and-timber motte-and-bailey fortress. The Normans lost control in 1137 when Gruffudd ap Cynan’s sons burned it down. Welsh princes Cadell, Rhys and Maredudd rebuilt it in stone in 1151, but the Normans retook it seven years later. The castle changed hands repeatedly: in 1164 it fell to Deheubarth forces who held it for more than twenty-five years. After a brief Norman recapture it was finally destroyed in 1199 under Maelgwn ap Rhys ap Gruffudd. Recent excavations have uncovered remains that may be a medieval royal court and stronghold, suggesting it once served as one of Ceredigion’s principal royal seats. On a nearby hilltop north of the village lies a small hillfort. Close by spreads Cors Caron, a vast peat bog. Three miles east, across the valley, stands Strata Florida Abbey where the poet Dafydd ap Gwilym is buried.