More on Madog ap Llywelyn's uprising

King Edward I of England built Caernarfon Castle as one of a network of fortifications to consolidate his conquest of Wales. It was begun in about 1283, after the death of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last Welsh prince, and on the site of an earlier Norman castle.

This massive structure, which symbolised Edward's power, was built at enormous expense. The seaside location allowed for supplies to be brought in without risking treacherous overland transport, and the town walls were built to protect the English people living around the castle.

But there was still resistance and in 1293 Madog ap Llywelyn ap Maredudd, a distant relative of Llywelyn, led an uprising which started when his rebel forces captured the incomplete castle and set fire to the town on fairday. They murdered Roger de Puleston, the king's tax collector.

They then marched east, onto Conwy and Denbigh, before the rebellion was quashed. Caernarfon Castle was back under English control some months later and building carried on until about 1330.

The Tourist Information Office is on the corner of Castle Street. To continue the walk go down Castle Street and turn right at the crossroads, going along High Street as far as the Eastgate.