Cairfilly Castle is one of the largest British castles that have survived to this day, second in size only to Windsor. It covers an area of just over 12 hectares, which makes it one of the largest fortifications in all of Europe. But even this is not surprising, but the fact that it was built with unique techniques, completely alien to that time. Unfortunately, history has not preserved the name of its designer, but one can say so - he possessed amazing knowledge in engineering, and, most likely, took them to the grave, since nothing like this was ever built anywhere else.
Geographical location of Kairfilly Castle
This beautiful medieval stronghold is located in South Wales, in County Cairfilly, towering over the central part of the city of the same name, located 13 km north of Cardiff.
The history of Kairfilly castle
Its construction took place against the backdrop of events that ultimately led to the loss of national independence by Wales, in which this amazing castle played an important role. And it all began with its construction, which took place between 1268 and 1271. It was fought by Lord Gilbert de Clair, in the disputed territory of Wales and the Norman Mark, in Middle Glamorgan, which caused a war between the rulers of these historical regions.
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The Prince of Wales considered this a personal insult, and a violation of his rights, he invaded Glamorgan with an army in 1270 and attempted to capture Cairfilli. But, despite the fact that the castle was not yet completed, he did not manage to do it, however, Prince Llywelyn was not going to retreat. It got to the point that King Henry III intervened and tried to settle the dispute peacefully, but the prince did not want to hear anything. The rebelliousness of the proud Llywelyn was used as an excuse by the heir of Henry Edward I, who conquered Wales in 1282.
Cairfilli Castle, during the Welsh uprisings of 1295 and 1316 became an arena of fierce battles, but it was not possible to capture it. In winter and spring 1326-1327. it was stormed by the troops of Queen Isabella, but this time it resisted. Nevertheless, what people could not do, time did - in the XIV century. it lost its significance and began to decline, and in the 15th century. and was completely abandoned by the owners, after which it stood in desolation for almost 300 years.
Kairfilly castle today
It is now a popular tourist attraction in South Wales and throughout the UK. It is located in the picturesque Sengenid Valley, surrounded on all sides by a mountain range. The main buildings of the castle were erected on an artificial island in the middle of the river, connected to the coast by two drawbridges. The castle is protected by two lines of powerful fortress walls, the first is external, a straight line with defensive towers, the second is internal, it rings the islet on which it is built. But its main defense is a water barrier in the form of ditches, artificial lakes, ingenious dams and a system of locks. Kairfilli is well preserved, and its southeastern tower, which was damaged during the Civil War, is surprising, since then it has strongly tilted, but for 350 years it has not collapsed.