Conwy

Conwy is one of the finest examples of Medieval walled towns. Dominated by the majestic ramparts of Edward I castle built between 1283 and 1287. It is an interesting factor to relate that the town of Carcasoone in Southern France is twinned architecturally with Conwy both towns were designed by James of St. George of Burgundy.

Throughout history, wherever there is a river, towns and settlements have developed and there is much evidence to suggest that this site has been inhabited for centuries. The harbour has always played a vital part in the life of the town, and at one time tall ships were a familiar sight. During the last century Conwy was an important port when slate transported (by rail) from Blaenau Ffestiniog was exported all over the world. Until recently the fishing industry contributed greatly to the economy of Conwy and for generations most Conwy families have been connected either with the fishing fleet or in mussel gathering on the estuary beds, the latter is the oldest industry of the town and from time to time pearls are found in the shells. A particularly large one was discovered during the reign of Charles II and is now in the Crown Jewels. Sadly both deep sea fishing and musselling are rapidly declining as local occupations and nowadays the harbours role has changed to accommodate the needs of tourism, with pleasure cruises and yachts in abundance.

Crossing the River Conwy until the early 19th century was a daunting prospect for travellers, the currents were treacherous and many folk came to grief. (The Romans sensibly made their crossing up river at Caerhun). However, in 1826 Thomas Telford completed his spectacular suspension bridge, followed some years later by Stephenson's tubular rail bridge, thus making travelling comfortable and making Gwynedd more accessible to the rest of the country. There was much jubilation in Conwy during this exciting time and it changed the life of the town enormously.

Conwy glorified in superlatives - the striking Elizabethan mansion house, Plas Mawr, built by the local adventurer Robert Wynn is considered to be the best example of its kind in Great Britain. Extensive work is being undertaken to preserve this piece of our heritage. Aberconwy House, a 14th century medieval merchant's house is one of the oldest houses in Wales; and on the quayside is the Smallest House in Great Britain. Within these walls of ancient Conwy many restless spirits roam and the local townsfolk can tell their haunting tales. A booklet has been written cataloguing some of these to preserve Conwy's ghost heritage.

Two places of worship are of particular interest. St.Mary's Church was the conventual church of the Cistercian Abbey, pre Edward I, and a part of it has survived the rigours of the elements for centuries. At that time it was the mausoleum of the Welsh princes. It has a beautifully carved rood screen and monks' stalls in the choir and a tomb in the channel recalling prolific parenthood - Nicholas Hokes, the 41st child of his father and the father of 27 children! Wordsworth was inspired to write his poem "We are Seven" as the grave apparently intrigued him. St. Michael's Catholic Church in Rosemary Lane is a replica of the Lourdes grotto in the grounds and the stations of the Cross culminating in a striking Calgary.