Harlech Castle, located in North Wales, was first built by Edward I of England (r. 1272-1307 CE) from 1283 CE. Largely completed by 1290 CE, the castle received some further additions up to 1330 CE. A classic example of a concentric medieval castle, Harlech skilfully used local topography, the sea, and imposing towers to represent a formidable challenge to any attackers, as proven in the lengthy sieges of the Welsh rebellions and the Wars of the Roses during the turbulent 15th century CE. Harlech Castle is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
More about: Harlech CastleDefinition
Timeline
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1272 - 1307Reign of Edward I of England.
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1283 - 1330Harlech Castle in Wales is built by Edward I of England.
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1290 - 1293Master James of Saint Georges is constable of Harlech Castle in Wales.
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1294 - 1295Harlech Castle is twice attacked by the Welsh rebel leader Madog ap Llywelyn.
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1323 - 1324Two rectangular towers are added to the entrance bridge of Harlech Castle.
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1404The Welsh rebel leader Owain Glyn Dwr captures Harlech Castle.
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1409A royal army led by the Prince of Wales, future King Henry V of England, recaptures Harlech Castle in Wales.
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1418A new fortified entrance bridge is added to Harlech Castle in Wales.
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1461 - 1468Harlech Castle in Wales is besieged by a Yorkist army during the Wars of the Roses.
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14 Aug 1468Harlech Castle in Wales finally surrenders to the Yorkists during the Wars of the Roses. The resistance of the Lancastrian garrison is commemorated in the popular song 'Men of Harlech'.
