Caernarfon Castle

Summary
Part castle, part royal palace. Caernarfon is the birthplace of Edward II, later declared the first Prince of Wales by his astute father. Opulent accommodation (for the time) is provided within two curtain walls.

The Castle
The castle, part of Edward I's plan to control the Welsh nation, was built on the site of an original motte and bailey castle. It was to serve the purpose of governing the area and at the same time, be substantial and palatial enough for a king to visit. The single defensive wall is a massive one beefed up by internal defenses. There are two inner wards.

The castle is constructed with angular rather than round towers. The 10-sided Eagle Tower and the Queen's Tower were the most elaborate. Caernarfon is one of Edward's most imposing castles. There are a number of exhibitions, an AV program and displays in the castle, including the Welsh Fusiliers regiment museum.

Caernarfon from the sea