Pembroke is a historic Welsh town situated only a short distance from the picturesque coast. Its most important monument and a point that attracts tourists is the restored medieval castle, where King Henry VII was born.
The history of the city has been associated with the castle for centuries. Although a settlement existed here before the Norman invasion and its traces were found during archaeological research, it was only the construction of the stronghold at the end of the 11th century that made this place more important. Pembroke Castle is the area's greatest attraction. It stands on a rocky promontory over the Cleddau River, which in the past increased its defensive value. The fortress was one of the largest in Wales, and it gained even greater importance in the thirteenth century, when King Edward I made it a base for his troops fighting against the Welsh troops. The castle was badly damaged during the civil war in the 17th century by order of Cromwell. It owes its present appearance to numerous renovation works carried out since the 19th century.
There are also other interesting monuments in Pembroke. There was a Benedictine abbey here from the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries. To this day, large fragments of the walls of the monastery temple can be seen in the body of the parish church. Nearby stands Monkton Hall, a 14th-century stone house considered one of the oldest residential buildings in Wales.
The great wealth of Pembroke is its surroundings. There is a beautiful stretch of coast full of coves, promontories and rocks dramatically protruding from the sea waves. Along this beautiful scenery, there are several hiking trails with viewpoints. They run, among others to Freshwater East Reserve. The beautiful wild beaches of Freshwater East, Freshwater West and Angel Beach are also in this area.
