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Location
Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, Wales
Description
Kidwelly Castle is situated on the river Gwendraet near the town of Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire, west Wales. The castle is in ruins and was built around 1200 as a defence against the Welsh. The castle is a square inner bailey defended by four round towers, which overlook a semi-circular outer curtain wall in the land side, with a massive gatehouse next to the river. The river forms a natural defence on one side, so double wall was not needed on the river side. A jutting tower protects the riverside walls. The castle is relatively well-preserved and in the care of Cadw (a government body that conserves heritage buildings of Wales).
History
The castle fell to the Welsh several times in the twelfth century. The outer defences were constructed. The stone curtain wall with its wall-walk and towers, and the Great Gatehouse were built in the early 14th century. In 1403 it was unsuccessfully besieged by forces of Owain Glyndwr in 1403 with assistance from French soldiers who captured Kidwelly town. The castle was rescued by an English army after just three weeks, but the gatehouse was extensively damaged. The last major addition to the castle was at the end of the 15th century when a large hall was built on the west of the outer courtyard.
The Arts
Kidwelly Castle was used as a location for the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, appearing in the first scene after the titles. Kidwelly Castle appears in a misty shot as the destination for King Arthur and Patsy.
Other Castles in the Area
Carreg Cennen Castle, Carmarthenshire
Dinefwr Castle, Carmarthenshire
Dryslwyn Castle, Carmarthenshire
Laugharne Castle, Pembrokeshire
Llansteffan Castle, Carmarthenshire
Oxwich Castle, Swansea
Oystermouth Castle, Swansea
Pennard Castle, Swansea
Penrice Castle, Swansea
Swansea Castle, Swansea
Weobley Castle, Swansea
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