Pembroke Castle, Medieval castle in Pembroke, Wales
Pembroke Castle is a fortification in the Welsh town of Pembroke, built on a rocky outcrop above the Cleddau River. The walls are made of grey limestone and reach about 6 meters (20 feet) thick at the base, while the round keep rises several stories high.
Norman invaders built the first wooden fortress in 1093 under Roger de Montgomerie during the invasion into Wales. The stone castle was expanded in the 12th and 13th centuries when William Marshal made it a Norman stronghold in south Wales.
The round keep known as The Keep still dominates the skyline above the river with its unusual stone dome. Visitors can climb the narrow spiral stairs and look out over the town and water just as guards have done for centuries.
The fortress is open daily, with hours varying by season and longer openings during summer. Guided tours explain the defenses and medieval construction, while visitors can explore the towers and courtyards on their own.
Below the fortress lies the Wogan Cavern, a natural limestone cave used as a fortified storage room in medieval times. Water from the river could enter the cave directly at high tide, making it easier to supply the fortress during sieges.
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