Caernarfon is a Welsh city known primarily for its monumental medieval castle built during the reign of King Edward I. It is included, along with other fortresses in the region, on the UNESCO list.
The settlement in the Caernarfon area already existed in prehistoric times, and during the Roman rule there was a thriving settlement here. Its remains were discovered during earthworks carried out in the city center. Medieval Church of St. Pebliga stands on the site of the former Roman temple of Mithra, and in the 19th century a Roman altar was found in its crypts.
However, the greatest attraction of Caernarfon and a testimony to its importance and long history is, above all, Caernarfon Castle. It is situated on the shores of the Menai Strait which separates Wales from the Isle of Anglesey. It is a five-sided structure with high walls, nine defensive towers and a fortified entrance gate. For the Welsh, it is a symbol of English rule over the province. Within its walls, Prince Charles became the Prince of Wales, i.e. he was officially recognized as the heir to the British throne.
The city center is surrounded by the remains of medieval ramparts that stand on Roman foundations. The historic houses located within them come mainly from the period from the 17th to the 19th century. An interesting monument that has received a new life is the 19th century market hall, which is used today for exhibition and concert purposes.
