History

Cardiff Castle has a very long and interesting history. Supported by archaeological findings made in the 1970’s, historians believe that somewhere around the year 50 AD the Romans had a number of forts built on this location.  After the Romans left the forts, the site remained abandoned until the 11^th century when the Normans rebuilt Cardiff Castle for military purposes. Along the centuries Cardiff Castle passed from one noble family to another and in 1866 the architect William Burges was employed by the 3^rd Marquess of Bute to transform the castle. Cardiff Castle got a completely new look afterwards. Sumptuous interiors with wall paintings, stained glass, marble and woodcarvings have transformed Cardiff Castle into a piece of international importance. 

Features

The Bute family decided in 1947 to give Cardiff Castle to the City Council. The Castle is protected as a grade I listed building and is maintained in a wonderful state. 

Cardiff Castle is open for visitors and has plenty of impressive features. The rooms of the Castle are remarkable ornate and have murals all-round. Each splendid room has its own special topic, from Mediterranean garden themes to Italian and Arabian decorations. The influence of William Burges is without a doubt visible here. On the outside the Castle is build in a Victorian Gothic style, surrounded by gardens and along its south side there is the Animal Wall depicting 15 sculptured animals. 

Some features that were later added to the Castle are the air raid shelters and tunnels that were used during World War II. These massive underground structures are also open to the public. 

The Interpretation Centre which was opened in 2008 recreates all the special moments of the Castle’s History. The Firing Line regimental museum is dedicated to the Royal Welsh and is part of the Interpretation Centre. 

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