Welsh High Points
Back on the mainland of Wales, our next stop brought us to the awe-inspiring Caernarfon Castle — one of the most iconic and historically significant fortresses in all of Britain. Built by King Edward I of England in 1283 as part of his campaign to conquer and subdue Wales, the castle was intended not only as a military stronghold but as a powerful symbol of English dominance over the region...
Strategically positioned on the banks of the River Seiont and overlooking the Menai Strait, Caernarfon Castle’s site had long been of military importance. The Romans and later the Normans recognized this, though their wooden fortifications were eventually lost to time. Edward I’s castle, however, was built to endure. Completed in 1330, its distinctive polygonal towers, thick curtain walls, and striking banded masonry — inspired by the Walls of Constantinople — set it apart from other medieval fortifications and reflected the latest European defensive design and political symbolism...
The architecture of Caernarfon Castle was more than just functional; it was propagandistic. The grandeur and imperial design were meant to assert English supremacy and echo Roman imperial power — even suggesting a connection to the legendary King Arthur and the ancient Roman emperors, reinforcing Edward’s authority over the Welsh...
The medieval town was inside the castle's outer walls and was successfully held by the English…
In more recent history, the castle gained international attention when it hosted the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales in 1969 — a ceremony laden with pageantry and symbolism, once again tying the fortress to the idea of governance and rule over Wales...
With our week in Wales drawing to a close, we made our way back through Aberystwyth, enjoying the scenic coastal views that have defined much of the Welsh landscape on this journey...
Our final stop took us to the National Botanic Garden of Wales in Llanarthney, nestled in the lush River Tywi valley. Home to the world’s largest single-span greenhouse, the garden is a remarkable blend of horticulture, science, and design. The spring flowers were in full bloom, putting on a spectacular show — though we had been treated to a vibrant tapestry of floral color throughout our trip...
Then, we finished our trip with a visit to the Bird of Prey Centre where we saw this magnificent golden eagle before heading back to London and home for the summer....
We hope to see you later this year when we will be heading back across the Pacific for more views of Southeast Asia.
This featured blog entry was written by Hawkson from the blog Blissful Adventures.
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