Would you like to immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table? Then head to the capital of Wales, Cardiff. From the very first minutes, you will feel the unique spirit of rich history that fills the local streets and squares. But even the most intense sightseeing tour can not compare with the exciting experience that you will get from a day spent in the oldest building in the county, Cardiff Castle.
Standing on the ruins of ancient fortresses, the Victorian Gothic castle remains a silent and proud witness to the formation and development of Cardiff Castle, which is only ten years older than it. However, the history of this place began much earlier. Back in the first century AD, the Romans chose this place to build a fort, the remains of which can still be seen today. Then the Norman conquests began. Thus, the site of the former fort was complemented by a fortress, which was eventually turned into a judicial institution. Later, these lands passed to the local nobility and ended up in the hands of the Bute family, who redesigned it beyond recognition and turned it into the castle we now know.
Inside the castle, there are many stunning halls that will delight you. The interiors are adorned with rich frescoes, colorful stained glass windows, marble, and gilding, as well as unique decorative elements with intricate wood carvings. Camelot, the castle of King Arthur and his knights, may have looked the same.
In the tower of Cardiff Castle, there is a Moorish smoking room, which is a real work of art. The walls of the small room are completely covered with bright Arabic-style paintings that you can pore over for hours. The room is also decorated with elegant colored figurines. Each detail of the interior holds meaning. Nothing is accidental.
Another especially impressive room of the castle is the reception hall. It is decorated with many paintings on medieval themes, an elaborately carved wooden partition, and a fancy fireplace.
Cardiff Castle is easily accessible. Surrounded by picturesque parks and hills, it stands in the city center.