As if its spectacular situation, foreboding might, and great power
were not sufficient to ensure the fame of this magnificent castle,
Harlech is also inseparably linked in Welsh myth with the tragic heroine
of Branwen, the daughter of Llyr, of the Mabinogion. Mythology
aside, it is small wonder that this is one of the most familiar
strongholds in Britain. Seen from the bluff of rock to the south of the
town, the view of castle, sea and mountain panorama is truly
breathtaking. But not only has it an unsurpassed natural setting, as a
piece of castle-building Harlech is also unrivalled. Even after seven
centuries, it remains a testament to a military architect of genius, Master James of St. George.
Here he adapted the natural strength of the site to the defensive
requirements of the age, and created a building which combines a
marvellous sense of majesty with great beauty of line and form.
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