The Wonders of Beaumaris Castle
Undoubtedly the most concentric castle of the time, Beaumaris Castle is a Welsh mediaeval castle. Built with outstanding defenses, Beaumaris was built in 1295 by king Edward the first of England to combat the threat of Welsh rebels. The castle was carefully planned. On Edwards visit to Anglesey, Wales, in 1283, he consulted the Welsh government, however, resources were already scarce and the castle could not begin. Then, in 1294-1295 the Welsh revolted under control of Madog ap Llywelyn. Although England won, Edward knew that the Welsh could up rise again, and so, in 1295 with 2600 men, the construction of Beamaris began. The astonishing defenses, including a moat, two towers, sixteen gates ( although the Llanfaes gate was probably never completed ), wooden doors, murder holes, a barbican and both inner and outer walls, made Beaumaris castle impregnable without the use of cannons and later 17th century warfare. Beaumaris also contains a chapel, in the Chapel tower. However, despite all this astounding architecture, Beaumaris was never fully completed. Due to money issues and the kings strong involvement in Scotland and Gascony, the castle construction ceased, and although there was minor construction for a short time, we are left wondering, if completed, what history and secrets Beaumaris would hold.