Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle stands as one of Wales's most impressive medieval fortifications, built by Edward I between 1283 and 1292 under the oversight of master mason James of St. George. Positioned dramatically on a rock promontory overlooking the Conwy estuary, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features eight massive round towers and two barbicans, divided into Inner and Outer Wards. The castle contains the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales, with the inner ward housing the royal residence, granary, and private chapel, while the outer ward accommodated the Great Hall, domestic buildings, and garrison barracks. Notable architectural features include the earliest surviving stone machicolations in Britain and a unique arrangement of three latrines on a single tower floor. A postern gate provided access to the river for resupply from the sea.