BattlefieldsSiege of Harlech Castle 1283
Medieval

Siege of Harlech Castle 1283

1283
Gwynedd, Wales
Also known as: Harlech 1283 · English construction and taking of Harlech site
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Gwynedd, Wales
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Welsh defenders
Forces
Welsh: c.100–150 garrison
VS
Victor
Edward I of England
Forces
Edward I: c.1,500 troops
Outcome
The Welsh-held site was taken and work immediately begun on the great Harlech Castle by Master James of Saint George
The Battle

History & Significance

Edward I took control of the rocky promontory at Harlech in 1283 during the final conquest of Wales. The site commanded Cardigan Bay and was strategically critical. Construction of the great concentric castle began immediately, supplied entirely by sea. Harlech became the masterpiece of Edwardian castle building in Wales.

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