Holt Castle, Medieval castle in Holt, Wales
Holt Castle is a pentagonal fortress built on a sandstone ridge near the River Dee in Wales. Five round towers frame the central courtyard, with the ruins rising roughly 33 feet (10 meters) above the surrounding landscape.
Construction began in 1282 under Edward I and John de Warenne to defend newly conquered Welsh lands after defeating Llywelyn ap Gruffydd. The castle served as a military stronghold for centuries, guarding this strategically important border region.
The structure earned the name Castrum Leonis due to the lion motif carved into the stonework above its main entrance gate.
The site is accessible by an easy path that circles the fortress and provides views from multiple angles of its structure. The ground can be muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the ruins.
King Richard II took over the fortress in 1397 and repurposed it from a military stronghold into his personal treasure repository, completely shifting its role. This dramatic change shows how a wartime structure became a place for royal wealth and prestige.
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