CASTLES CARDIGAN

Cilgerran Castle is a striking 13th-century fortress perched above the Teifi Gorge near Cardigan, Wales. Built by William Marshal in 1223, the castle's most impressive features are its twin round towers—the East and West Towers—linked by a parapet walk, which dominate the landscape. The structure comprises two wards: an outer ward with a gatehouse and ancillary buildings, and an inner ward defended by the iconic circular towers. This castle represents nearly 800 years of history, from its Norman origins in 1108 to its present-day guardianship by Cadw, Wales's historic environment service.

Cardigan Castle in Ceredigion, Wales stands as a landmark spanning over 900 years of history on the northern bank of the River Teifi. Built originally by the Norman Gilbert de Clare in 1093, the castle gained immense significance when captured and rebuilt in stone by the Welsh ruler Lord Rhys ap Gruffydd in 1171, making it one of the first stone castles constructed by a Welshman and the birthplace of the first eisteddfod in 1176. Though heavily damaged by Royalist forces in 1645 and subsequently slighted by Parliamentarians, the castle underwent an extensive £12 million restoration project, reopening to the public in 2015. Today it functions as a heritage attraction featuring a museum, restaurant, and events venue, set within two acres of landscaped gardens with medieval walls overlooking the river.