Golden Gallery - Welsh Castles

In the early middle ages, the Welsh (like the Scottish) were embroiled in battle with the English. Castles were built by both armies and deployed in a defensive capacity. Consequently, Wales today contains the highest concentration - and the most impressive - collection of medieval stone castles in the world. From Chepstow Castle in south east Wales (the first stone built castle in Europe) to Pembroke Castle in the south west (birthplace of King Henry VII of England and Wales); and from Caerphilly Castle (with it's unique double moat and leaning tower) to majestic Caernarfon in the north west, Wales is absolutely teeming with outstanding architecture dating from the Middle Ages. Travel for a few miles in any direction and you'll discover an enchanting, centuries-worn castle or ancient monument. Due to most castle's original defensive function, each commands spectacular hillside vistas of the surrounding countryside or sea. This gallery highlights Swansea's Castles and other Welsh castles within a short distance of the city.

Golden Swansea website, including all photography (except where noted),