There are places that acquire special relevance thanks to a movie or a song.
That is the case of harlech castle, which you can see in your North Wales trip, and whose image is linked to a song that has some popularity in Britain.
These are Men of Harlech, whose letter recounts the most important historical event that occurred in this great fortification, during the so-called War of the Two Roses, in the middle of the XV century.
For those of us who don't know the song, you should know that the harlech castle worth a visit on its own, regardless of the song, for a route through the castles of Wales.
Located very close to the sea, on top of a hill near the snowdonia national park, el harlech castle Above all, it will catch your attention due to its impressive location.
This location will allow you to see the fortification from many kilometers before you reach the town of the same name, which is where it is located.
History of the impregnable Harlech Castle
El harlech castle It was completed by order of Edward I during one of his campaigns to conquer Wales that occurred in the year 1295.
It is one of the several fortifications that were built at that time by the English king, such as the castles of Conwy or Caernarfon, which you should also include in your route through North Wales.
It is surprising to know that the castle, during the Middle Ages, was located on the seashore, and the hill that you will now see was actually cliffs.
The castle became famous for being impregnable thanks to its double wall configuration at its entrance door.
This impregnability was confirmed during the aforementioned War of the Two Roses, which took place between 1461 and 1470, in which the castle withstood a seven-year siege.
But this was also helped by what was considered the castle's secret weapon.
It was a long 61 meter staircase that went down the cliff from the walls towards the sea, so that its inhabitants could be supplied with food and water.
For visit Harlech Castle, from the road that runs near the sea you have to go up to the very small town next to the castle.
There you find the building of the Visitors Center and a small parking lot in front of the castle gate.
Harlech Castle visiting hours
The Harlech Castle visiting hours They vary depending on the time of year, but in summer, from July 1 to August 31, it is every day, from 9,30:18 a.m. to XNUMX p.m., with last access one hour before.
In spring and autumn the castle closes an hour earlier, and from November to February the hours are from 10 a.m. to 16 p.m.
The ticket prices (2018) are, adults, £6,50; seniors, students and children under 16 years old, 4,20 euros.
Children under 5 years old and disabled people, along with a companion, enter for free.
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