Tretower Castle, Wales - Tiny Planet Video & Images

The castle sits in a strategic position on the north bank of the River Usk. The remains that are visible today date from the 13th century, but the original castle on the site was a Norman motte and bailey castle, a large earthen mound topped with wooden defences. It was built during the Norman conquest of the ancient kingdom of Brycheiniog, when powerful Norman nobles settled in Brecon and the surrounding area to establish their control.

This wooden castle was rebuilt in stone in the mid 12th century. A shell keep was built, a hall and solar were erected to the south-west side of the motte and a kitchen was built at a slightly lower level.

The structure was extensively remodelled in the 13th century, when the great tower was built. The tower has three storeys, each with a single room with a fireplace and a window. The foundations of the tower contain a basement.

Tretower Castle was not only for defence. The quality of the ornamental stonework exceeds what is required for defensive purposes alone. For some of its history, this castle was a prized domestic residence and a status symbol.

By 1400, the domestic residence had moved to Tretower Court, but the castle survived and continued to be used as a military fortress in times of war, such as during Owain Glyn Dwr's uprising. ^Source