Historic Attractions in South Wales

South Wales is a landscape defined by its “Border Country” history, boasting one of the highest concentrations of ancient monuments and fortifications in Europe.

It is a land of Castles because it was a contested frontier between Welsh princes and Norman invaders. The region is dotted with spectacular fortresses with Caerphilly Castle the standout. The area also has Roman beginnings and the town of Caerleon was once important to the Roman Empire, one of its features is the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in Britain, along with the remains of legionary barracks and sophisticated baths. 

The landscape changed forever during the Industrial Revolution. Lots of industrial raw materials and processes took place here. Coal, Slate, and Copper deposits resulted in mines and workshops. Many of these are now visitor attractions.

For a more ancient spiritual experience, the ruins of Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley offer a hauntingly beautiful example of Gothic architecture that inspired poets like Wordsworth.