Castell Talacharn / Laugharne Castle
Sightseeing attraction | Carmarthen | Wales | United Kingdom
Castell Talacharn, better known as Laugharne Castle, is a historic fortress in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire, Wales. The castle is situated scenically on the banks of the River Taf and has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
History
The origins of the castle date back to 1116 when it was founded by Robert Courtemain. Over the centuries, the castle experienced numerous changes of ownership and renovations. In the 13th century, it was expanded by the de Brian family who built the distinctive round towers that exist today. During the English Civil War in the 17th century, the castle changed hands multiple times and was eventually besieged and damaged by parliamentary troops in 1644. After the war, the castle gradually fell into ruin and was perceived as a romantic ruin in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Architecture
Laugharne Castle combines elements from various periods. The impressive round towers date back to the 13th century, while later additions are from the Tudor period. In the 16th century, the castle was converted into a comfortable manor house, with the defensive walls equipped with battlements to emphasize its medieval character. The ruins visible today bear witness to this diverse architectural history.
Cultural significance
The castle is closely associated with the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, who lived in Laugharne in the 1930s and 1940s. He used a summerhouse on the castle grounds overlooking the Taf estuary as a writing studio and wrote works such as "Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog" there. This connection makes the castle an important site for literature enthusiasts.
Current use
Today, Laugharne Castle is a well-maintained ruin managed by Cadw, the Welsh government's historic preservation organization. The site is surrounded by ornamental gardens from the 19th century and offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and impressive architecture.
A visit to Laugharne Castle not only provides a deep insight into Welsh history and architecture but also offers the opportunity to enjoy the inspiring landscape that once influenced artists like Dylan Thomas.
