Swansea Castle

Swansea Castle is a Norman fortification with surviving stone walls and towers standing in the heart of the city. The remains show the building methods and defensive layout that were typical for military structures of the 12th century.

Robert of Glamorgan founded the castle in 1107 as a defensive position against Welsh attacks. The original wooden structure was later converted to stone to create a stronger fortification.

The castle sits within the modern city center where locals and visitors pass through its ruins as a landmark of the past. You can still sense how it once watched over the harbor and the routes traders used.

The ruins are accessible year-round and located centrally, making them easy to reach on foot. The Swansea Museum offers guided tours that explain more about medieval architecture and how the defenses worked.

The castle occupies the former position of the River Tawe, which has shifted its course over the centuries. This location was once critical for controlling the harbor and the commercial activities that flowed through it.

Location: Swansea

Location: Castle

Inception: 1107

Elevation above the sea: 12.3 m

Website: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/swansea-castle

GPS coordinates: 51.62040,-3.94111

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40