Norman, Welsh & Edwardian Castles

 

Most people tend to think of medieval Welsh castles as falling into three main categories. The first group - Norman castles - consists primarily of motte-and-bailey castles built by the conquering Normans beginning shortly after their victory over the Saxons at Hastings in 1066. Most of these early castles were constructed with earth and timber, although castles constructed in stone eventually replaced many of these earlier castles. Many examples can be found throughout Wales, with a significant concentration along the Welsh-English border, the so-called "Welsh Marches." Outstanding examples of this type of masonry castle include Chepstow, Caerphilly, Kidwelly, and Carreg Cennen, all located in south Wales. The second group of castles are the native Welsh castles, built by Wales' own princes and ruling royal houses. They are sometimes referred to as the "native Welsh castles." Prominent among these are Castell-y-Bere, Dolwyddelan,  Ewloe, and Dolbadarn castles. A visit to a native Welsh castle usually provides a most rewarding castle experience, as they are often found in the country's most dramatic and scenic locations. The "Edwardian Castles," were built by King Edward I at the end of the 13th century as a means of subduing the Welsh and their heroic native princes. They are our third and probably best-known group of Welsh castles. They tend to be larger and more impressive than Norman and native castles but not necessarily more important. Rhuddlan, Conwy, Harlech, and Beaumaris rank high as familiar examples of this type of Welsh castle. Some would mention at least two other types of Welsh castle. As mentioned, Norman motte and bailey castles were often made of earth and timber with no masonry, and can be found throughout Wales. They dominated the landscape prior to masonry castles becoming the norm. These castles can be a bit more difficult to find, but most are well worth the effort. Examples of this type of castle include Hen Domen, St Clears, Painscastle, and Builth. The so-called "Tudor Castle" represents yet another type of Welsh castle common towards the end of the Middle Ages. After the final conquest of Wales by Edward I in 1283, the apparent need for castles quickly diminished. Many existing castles were modified or refitted with Tudor-style refinements, transforming strongholds which had been primarily built for defensive purposes into elegant showplaces for their lords, ladies and guests. The transition from military stronghold to comfortable residence was already underway by the late 13th century, changes that are reflected in the modification of existing castles such as Carew, Raglan, Chirk, and Powis.

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