Edward I’s Conquest and the Building of Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle was built between 1283 and 1289 following Edward I’s victory over Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last native Prince of Wales.

Designed by Master James of St George, a leading military architect from Savoy, the castle exemplifies the cutting-edge military architecture of its time.

Architectural Features and Innovations

Harlech Castle’s design reflects both defensive strength and residential functionality. Key architectural features include:

• Concentric Design: The castle consists of an inner and outer ward with multiple layers of defense, typical of Edwardian castles.
   

• Massive Curtain Walls: Thick, high stone walls protect the castle, with battlements and arrow slits for archers.
   

• Great Gatehouse: The impressive main gatehouse features twin towers, a portcullis, murder holes, and other defensive mechanisms.
   

• Round Towers: Unlike many earlier square towers, the use of rounded towers minimized blind spots and improved resistance to siege engines.
   

• The Sea Gate: A smaller gatehouse provided direct access to the sea, allowing the castle to be resupplied during sieges.
   

Harlech Castle’s Role in Military History

Early Use and English Control

After its completion, Harlech Castle served as a critical garrison for English forces maintaining control over Gwynedd and the wider Welsh territories.

Its formidable defenses helped deter Welsh uprisings and Scottish incursions.

 The Glyndŵr Rising (1400–1415)

One of the castle’s most famous chapters was during the Welsh rebellion led by Owain Glyndŵr.

In 1404, Glyndŵr’s forces besieged Harlech Castle but failed to capture it. The castle remained loyal to the English Crown throughout this period.

The Wars of the Roses

Harlech Castle played a significant role during the Wars of the Roses, a dynastic conflict between the houses of Lancaster and York in the 15th century.

From 1461 to 1468, Harlech was held by Lancastrian forces and endured an extended siege by Yorkist troops.During this time, the castle earned the nickname "The castle of the king" or the "castle of the waiting" due to its strategic importance and the perseverance of its defenders. shutdown123