Swansea Castle
Overview
Swansea Castle was built during the 13th and 14th century by William II and William III and by their successor John Mowbray. It is being believed that this castle has gone through several modifications and alterations right from its existence. The actual shape of the structure of this castle had an oval and sun-rectangular enclosure that overlooked the Tawe River on the east and a large sub-rectangular outer bailey surrounds the northern, southern and western sides of this castle. The newly built castle was under attack by Welsh in the year 1116 and after many more attacks this castle collapsed in the year 1217. Today, the remains of this castle have become an important part of this large structure which also features a flowing waterfall. It has also become a famous picnic spot for several locals and vacationers.
History of Swansea Castle
Swansea Castle was in fact founded by Henry de Beaumont in the year 1106. The actual castle seems to have been an oval or sub-rectangular enclosure overlooking the Tawe River on the east. The central bailey possibly enclosed a motte however the other outlook is that it was the circle effort. The new castle was later attacked in the year 1116 by the Welsh however the central castle was in custody. In the year 1217, after several unsuccessful attacks the castle demolished and later it was re-constructed in the year 1220. It was restored as a settlement between Henry III and Llywelyn ap lorwerth. Immediately as the construction was going on the central castle was possibly constructed in stone with one central tower.
Later during the 13th century the large external bailey was also constructed in stone giving it extra protection. The only evident relics are the two sides of the rectangular innovative castle that was built in the south-east coiner of the external bailey in the early 14th century. The southern face is topped with a graceful series of arcades at the wall head which are same to the structures at the Bishop of St David’s Palaces at St David and Lamphey. However, by them this particular castle had lost its significance. In the 18th and the 18th centuries some of the parts of this castle were used as a town hall, a prison, a drill hall and a market place. Later in the 20th century, parts of this castle demolished and the remains are now been strengthened.
Features of Swansea Castle
Swansea Castle is one of the historical and the most visited tourist attractions in Swansea. Founded by Henry de Beaumont in the year 1106, this historical castle is one of the beautiful places to visit as it presents a wealth of attractions for all the vacationers. The usual resources and the attractiveness of the environment along with the number of historical buildings in Swansea make for a pleasant trip in and around this beautiful city. In order to experience the splendor and magnificent present in the ancient days of the 11th and the 12th century you have to take a trip to this famous historical castle. There are few other castles in this city to enamor the vacationers which include Weobly Castle, Penrice Castle, Penmaen Castle, Loughor Castle, Oxwich Castle, Pennard Castle, Oystermouth Castle and Landimor Castle.