Pembroke Castle – History in Pictures
Thanks to John Hodge who has kindly allowed us to use some images he has taken on his many walks about Pembrokeshire. You can read about John elsewhere in Pembrokeshire.Online (he makes amazing love spoons, as well as taking photographs) and his wife, Judith, and her crafting. Thank you, John, for sharing your walks with us.
Pembrokeshire Castle’s earliest origins begin as a small inner bailey built in 1093 by Arnulf de Montgomery. Defended a few years later from a siege by the Welsh, it was by the late 12th century to have grown into a much more substantial fortification. Ideally placed for defensive purposes on a rocky promontory overlooking Milford Haven, it has some great views.
Having undergone more reconstruction over the centuries, it boasts a keep that is almost 80ft high and a gatehouse with three portcullises. All the rooms are circular and it is the only castle in Britain to be built over a natural cave – which is named the Wogan. The future Henry VII was born here in 1457.
Its turbulent past, particularly during the reign of Charles I alone, make it a must-visit location for history lovers.
Thanks to John Hodge for the photographs. One can’t help feeling what a grim, cold place Pembroke Castle must have been to live in in the winter.
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