Iolo Griffiths

History of Conwy Iolo Griffiths

The story of the town of Conwy in North Wales, from its origin as a monastery founded in an uninhabited location to the present day.
Edward I saw the strategic potential of the location, as it controlled the estuary of the Conwy river, so founded a castle, with its associated English settlement.
The colourful story includes the betrayal of Richard II, the audacious hijacking of the castle on April Fool's Day 1401, and a Royalist Archbishop who helped the Roundheads in taking the town and castle.
Travel and transport are another major theme for the town's history, being a port, and also a vital link for travellers across North Wales, who needed to cross the river.
While the castle and the town walls are an obvious attraction, being a World Heritage Site, the medieval Aberconwy House, and the Elizabethan Plas Mawr are also a must for history buffs.