Cardigan Castle, Medieval castle and archaeological site on River Teifi, Wales
Cardigan Castle is a stone fortress standing on elevated ground above the River Teifi, featuring Norman military architecture with thick defensive walls and towers. The remains show multiple layers of construction that reveal how the stronghold was reinforced and expanded over the centuries.
The fortress was first built in 1093 by Norman baron Roger de Montgomery as a wooden structure, then reconstructed in stone by Gilbert Fitz Richard during the 12th century. This transformation reflects how medieval Welsh strongholds evolved from simple timber defenses to permanent stone fortifications.
The castle grounds hosted the first documented Eisteddfod in 1176, marking the beginning of Wales' national festival of literature and music.
The site is accessible from April through October and is best visited during daylight to fully see the structures and landscape. The grounds cover uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Castle Green House was built within the fortress walls in the 1800s and blends medieval fortification elements with Georgian residential architecture. This unusual combination shows how the historic site was repurposed across different centuries.
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