ABSTRACT
In Wales, Edward I to secure his hold on the conquered land built some of the most magnificent castles to be seen anywhere. The Welsh castles were like the national fortifications of the old Roman Empire or of modern states. King Edward’s experiences during his Welsh campaign convinced him that a sea-link was vital to the security of a castle situated like Harlech. At Rhuddlan in Denbighshire, and at Aberystwyth in Cardiganshire, are two more Edwardian castles. In magnificence and beauty, Caernarvon Castle stands out among all the Edwardian strongholds in North Wales. At Kidwelly, in Carmarthenshire, is another fine concentric castle, built by one of the marcher barons. But as this castle stands with its back against a steep slope overhanging a river, the plan is like a half-moon; for on the straight side the two wards run together so as to form a single wall along the edge of the bank.
