FLINT AND RHUDDLAN

These six are the most famous Welsh castles and some of the best-known castles of medieval Europe. They are unique in that they were new builds at the behest of King Edward I (r. 1272-1307) and show his design influence. These castles are situated in coastal locations in northern Wales and constructed around the principality of Gwynedd, an area associated with the native Welsh princes of Wales and the focal points of their revolts. Other castles were built in Wales by both native Welsh and Anglo-Norman lords, while king and lords alike updated many more.

The six share a number of commonalities. First, they were deliberately constructed on or close to the sea, which allowed them ready supply route access. Maritime resources were a central component to the successful English conquest of Wales. They also played a key role in the development of trade opportunities. They are all built manifestations of the military campaign against the Welsh