Morlais Castle, Medieval castle in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales.
Morlais Castle is a set of ruins on a limestone ridge featuring a large walled enclosure with multiple defensive sections. The structure includes an inner and outer ward with preserved basement areas, towers, and a water cistern carved directly into the rock.
The fortress was built in 1288 by Gilbert de Clare and quickly became a site of power struggles with neighboring leaders. These tensions led to the imprisonment of key figures and reflect the unstable political conditions in late 13th-century Wales.
The name comes from Welsh and refers to its hilltop location. The fortress served as a symbol of power in the region and shows how military strength shaped local authority in medieval times.
The site sits on elevated ground and requires a climb to reach the ruins. Sturdy footwear is important since the paths can be uneven and the terrain can be exposed to wind.
The south tower features an intricate vaulting system with twelve ribs supporting the upper floor, a rare surviving architectural detail. This feature demonstrates the technical sophistication of medieval castle design in Wales.
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