Monmouth
 Castles |
Monmouth was originally a Roman military settlement called Blestium. Later it became the home of Breton lords. From Norman times, a castle was constructed to subdue Welsh insurgents in the region between the Rivers Severn and Wye.
It was in the 11th century castle that the future Henry V was born in 1387. Unfortunatley it is now a ruin. Monmouth Castle was largely destroyed during the British Civil Wars of 1642/9, but a part of the great hall remains. Adjoining this ruin is the Great Castle House. It was built in 1673 by the 1st Duke of Beaufort and many stones from the ruined castle were used to build the Great House. The latter remains well preserved with splendid decorative ceilings.
Monmouth is the county town of Gwent with argricultural and livestock markets whihch are still held in the town. There are a number of attractive Tudor and Georgian buildings located in network of narrow winding streets. The Shire Hall was built in 1724 and there are several fine old coaching inns from the same period. in the town The Nelson Museum is an excellent establishment, which contains sextants, Nelson's fighting sword and models of his ships. Nelson visited Monmouth in 1802. Located outside the Shire Hall, in Agincourt Square, are statues of Henry V and of C S Rolls of 'Rolls Royce' fame, whose father lived near the town. Some Saxon work can be seen in parish church at Dixton that was consecrated between 1066/70.
Monnow Bridge is the only fortified bridge left in Britain. It was constructed in 1260 as one of four medieval gates into the town. The gatehouse that sits astride the bridge, has been used as guardhouse, watchtower and prison, and still retains its portcullis.
Monmouth is very much a touring centre for the Wye Valley, and nearby Kymin Hill at 800 ft, enjoys spectacular views over the Monnow and Wye Valleys.
For further information see - http://www.monmouth.org.uk/Visitors/Default.aspx