Scheduled MonumentsWalesCaerphilly Castle
Medieval · Castle

Caerphilly Castle

Wales
Cadw SAM GM002
Period
Medieval
Site type
Castle
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Caerphilly Castle is a substantial concentric fortress constructed in South Wales during the late thirteenth century, begun in 1268 by Gilbert de Clare, the Red Earl of Gloucester. The castle represents one of the finest examples of concentric military architecture in Britain, featuring a complex system of inner and outer defensive walls surrounded by extensive water defences, with a particularly imposing gatehouse that dominates the inner ward. Its design reflects contemporary Continental influences in castle fortification, incorporating sophisticated defensive principles that were advanced for its period. The castle played a significant strategic role in the Anglo-Norman control of South Wales and remains substantially intact, retaining much of its original masonry and structural character.

Caerphilly Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM002. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Caerphilly Castle?

Caerphilly Castle is a substantial concentric fortress constructed in South Wales during the late thirteenth century, begun in 1268 by Gilbert de Clare, the Red Earl of Gloucester. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM002.

What period does Caerphilly Castle date from?

Caerphilly Castle dates from the medieval period, and is classified as a castle. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting Caerphilly Castle?

Caerphilly Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is GM002.

What other scheduled monuments are near Caerphilly Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Wenallt Camp, Rhiwbina (4.3 km), Twmpath, Rhiwbina (4.9 km), Castell Coch (5 km).

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