Caergwrle set to become Cadw’s 43rd castle

Caergwrle Castle is set to become the 43rd castle in Cadw’s care, it has been announced today.

The move comes as a result of an agreement in principle between Cadw and the castle’s current custodians, Hope Community Castle.

It will be Cadw’s first entirely new acquisition of a castle for 25 years.

Dating back 1277, having initially been built by Dafydd ap Gruffudd, the castle holds a unique place in Welsh history as the last castle to be built by a native Welsh Prince.

The castle also played a significant role in events which culminated in Llywelyn’s death near Builth in 1282 and Dafydd’s own capture and gruesome execution at Shrewsbury in 1283.

Lord Elis-Thomas AM, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport said: “From Caerphilly to Caernarfon, Conwy to Castell Coch, we are a country blessed with some of the most magnificent, imposing castles in the world, attracting record visitor numbers and boosting the economies of many of our towns and cities.

“But there are a whole host of castles on our doorsteps that are, perhaps, less well known but both individually and as a collective serve as precious physical reminders of our history and our heritage.

“These, to me, are the true Welsh castles – those built or inhabited by distinguished Welshmen of the past – by Llywelyn, Lord Rhys and Glyndwr amongst others. Welsh Princes who fought for and over Wales and helped shape the Wales and Welshness we recognise today.

“Cadw already cares for many of these castles of the Welsh princes including Dinefwr and Dryslwyn in the south and Dolbadarn and Castell y Bere in the north. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to work with the community council to add Caergwrle to their number – ensuring it remains open, cared for and accessible to all.

The Minister added: “I am keen for us to make more of the castles of our famous Welsh princes and their legacy and to make sure the long, proud history of Wales is told and understood through our castles and supporting materials.

“I hope to say more on how I hope to achieve this in the coming months. In the meantime, I’d encourage those across Wales who have not yet visited their local castle or want to understand more about the legends that live through our stone walls to explore and appreciate their local sites.

“Caergwrle is a special place and I look forward to this new partnership ensuring the good work of the community council is continued – making sure as many people as possible can continue to enjoy it for years to come.”

Christine Cunnah, Chairman Cllr of Hope Community Council added: “Hope Community Council is absolutely delighted to be in partnership with Cadw, which will ensure that our unique historical site of Caergwrle Castle is protected for future generations to enjoy.

“Together, we will aim to provide a special place for the local community and visitors. The Council would like to thank Lord Dafydd Ellis- Thomas for supporting this venture and also it is extremely grateful to Cadw for recognising the great historical significance of this site.”