Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd

Four massive stone castles with defensive walls form a complete system of military architecture across the northern Welsh landscape of Gwynedd.

King Edward I ordered the construction of these fortifications between 1283 and 1330 to establish control over Wales after his conquest.

The fortifications demonstrate the power transfer from Welsh princes to English monarchy through their architectural design and strategic placement throughout Gwynedd.

Visitors can access all four castles - Beaumaris, Caernarfon, Conwy, and Harlech - by car within an hour's drive of each location.

Master James of Saint George incorporated colored stone patterns and geometric designs into the walls, reflecting architectural influences from Northern Italy.

Location: Gwynedd

Location: Wales

Inception: 1280s

Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/374

GPS coordinates: 53.13972,-4.27694

Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:03