Abergavenny Castle, Norman castle in Abergavenny, Wales
Abergavenny Castle is a Norman castle in Abergavenny, Wales, set on raised ground above the River Usk. Surviving remains include sections of a high curtain wall, parts of defensive towers, and the foundations of former domestic buildings.
Hamelin de Ballon, a Norman lord, had the castle built around 1087 to control the Welsh borderlands. Over the following centuries, the site changed hands several times and was destroyed and rebuilt during repeated conflicts between Norman and Welsh forces.
Inside the castle grounds, a Victorian hunting lodge built directly on the original motte now serves as a local museum. The exhibitions focus on the region's past and display objects found in and around the site.
The ground is uneven throughout, with exposed foundations and grassy sections, so sturdy footwear is a good idea. The castle sits close to the town center, making it easy to reach on foot.
In 1175, a Welsh chieftain named Seisyll ap Dyfnwal and his companions were killed inside the castle during what appeared to be a peaceful gathering. The event left such a mark that the castle became known in Welsh tradition as a place of betrayal, a reputation that lasted for generations.
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