Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle stands in the centre of Cardiff, a medieval fortress built on the remains of a 3rd-century Roman fort. Its Norman motte and bailey design from the late 11th century was later rebuilt in stone, with strong walls added in the 13th century. The castle played a key part in conflicts between Normans and Welsh, including attacks in the 12th century and a storming in 1404 during Owain Glyndŵr’s revolt. After passing through several noble families, it lost its military importance after the Wars of the Roses. The Herbert family remodelled parts of the castle in the 16th century, and during the English Civil War it changed hands twice before being garrisoned. The castle’s greatest transformation came in the 19th century under the 3rd Marquess of Bute. He employed architect William Burges to create lavish Gothic interiors, considered among the finest of the Victorian Gothic revival. The grounds were redesigned with Roman-style walls and gatehouse, inspired by remains found on site. Air raid shelters built during the Second World War could hold up to 1,800 people. In 1947 the castle was donated to the city and now houses a regimental museum and hosts events. Visitors walk through the Roman walls and climb the large motte to see the medieval keep. The Gothic interiors feature rich carvings, stained glass and painted ceilings by Burges. The outer grounds include landscaped parks and the remains of the Roman fort. Inside the castle, rooms show layers of history from medieval halls to Victorian drawing rooms. The Firing Line museum in the grounds tells the story of the Welsh soldier. Views from the walls take in the city centre and the nearby hills.