Cilgerran Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Cilgerran, Wales.
Cilgerran Castle is a medieval fortress ruin positioned on a rocky headland overlooking the River Teifi in Wales. Two prominent round towers anchor the site, connected by sturdy stone walls that trace the natural contours of the landscape.
Construction of the current stone structure began in 1223 under William Marshal, 2nd Earl of Pembroke, following its recapture from Welsh control. The fortress served as a key military stronghold controlling the border region between English and Welsh lands throughout the medieval period.
The castle has drawn painters and artists for centuries, becoming a favorite subject for landscape studies and romantic imagery in art collections across Britain.
The site is open year-round for visitors to explore the medieval structures and enjoy river views from the headland. The main level is easy to walk across, though climbing the towers involves narrow stone stairs that require careful footing.
The fortress integrated the natural cliff face on its southern side into its defensive design, using the river gorge as a built-in barrier against attack. This approach reveals how medieval engineers used the landscape itself as a protective element rather than relying solely on constructed walls.
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