Criccieth Castle

Criccieth Castle crowns a dramatic rocky headland on the Llŷn Peninsula, commanding sweeping views across Cardigan Bay with beaches on either side. The castle began as the work of Llywelyn the Great in the 13th century with its distinctive massive gatehouse flanked by D-shaped towers; his grandson Llywelyn the Last expanded it with outer walls and additional defenses. Edward I captured the fortress in 1283 before Owain Glyndŵr destroyed it during his 15th-century rebellion. The picturesque castle inspired artists including Turner, who felt moved to paint its romantic clifftop setting. Now managed by Cadw, the site remains one of North Wales's most visually striking medieval ruins, set against the dramatically beautiful coastal landscape.