Time travellers, ready your finest cloaks and prepare to witness history in the making. The year is 1301, the location is Caernarfon, and Edward of Caernarfon (later Edward II), son of King Edward I of England, has just been declared the first English Prince of Wales. This symbolic moment marks a new chapter in the relationship between England and Wales, combining royal politics, pageantry, and medieval power plays. Let’s explore the town, the castle, and the historical context of this monumental event on a week-long time-travelling city break.
Day 1: Arrival in Caernarfon – A Medieval Marvel
Destination: Caernarfon Castle
Begin your journey at Caernarfon Castle, a breathtaking fortress commissioned by King Edward I in 1283 following his conquest of Wales. The castle’s formidable walls and polygonal towers dominate the skyline, a clear symbol of English power in the region. Explore the castle grounds and climb its towers for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Keep an ear out for the local chatter about the young Edward’s appointment—opinions vary depending on whether you’re talking to a Welshman or an English knight.
Day 2: Learn the Political Backdrop
Destination: A Royal Audience Chamber
Dive into the political drama that led to this historic event. King Edward I, known as “Longshanks,” had subdued Wales after years of rebellion, culminating in the execution of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last native Prince of Wales. By naming his son Edward as Prince of Wales, Edward I sought to solidify English control and establish a lasting legacy in the region. Attend a royal audience or seek out a local chronicler for firsthand accounts of the political tension.
Day 3: Medieval Caernarfon Life
Destination: The Market Square
Wander through Caernarfon’s bustling market square to experience medieval life. Merchants peddle wares such as wool, pottery, and freshly caught fish, while minstrels and jugglers entertain the crowds. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample local delicacies and mingle with townsfolk. Be sure to ask about their thoughts on the new Prince of Wales—you might hear whispers of rebellion alongside cautious optimism.
Day 4: Ceremony and Pageantry
Destination: Caernarfon Castle Courtyard
Today is the day of Edward of Caernarfon’s investiture as Prince of Wales. The castle courtyard is alive with the pomp and circumstance of a royal ceremony. Witness the young prince being presented to the gathered nobility, clad in rich robes and surrounded by the might of the English crown. It’s a moment of triumph for Edward I, though the mood among the Welsh onlookers may be less jubilant.
Day 5: Explore Welsh Heritage
Destination: Snowdonia National Park
Take a break from the castle and explore the stunning natural beauty of Snowdonia, just a stone’s throw from Caernarfon. Hike through rugged landscapes and reflect on the enduring Welsh spirit. This is the land that inspired resistance leaders like Llywelyn, and its breathtaking scenery is a testament to the resilience of the people who call it home.
Day 6: A Royal Feast
Destination: Banquet Hall, Caernarfon Castle
Attend a royal banquet in the castle’s great hall, where knights and nobles gather to toast the new Prince of Wales. The feast is a sensory delight, featuring roasted meats, spiced wine, and lively music. Listen to the court gossip and observe the political alliances being forged over goblets of ale. It’s a feast fit for a prince—just don’t spill your mead on a noble’s tunic.
Day 7: Reflect on Legacy
Destination: Local Monastery or Chapel
Conclude your journey with a visit to a nearby monastery or chapel to reflect on the historical and cultural implications of Edward’s investiture. While it solidified English dominance, it also set the stage for centuries of Welsh pride and resistance. Speak with monks or scribes who may have documented the event for their annals, providing insights into the broader historical context.
Did You Know?
- A Symbolic Gesture: The title of Prince of Wales has been held by the heir apparent to the English (and later British) throne ever since Edward of Caernarfon.
- Investiture Tradition: Modern investitures of Princes of Wales, such as that of Prince Charles in 1969, often draw on the medieval pageantry of Edward’s era.
- The Welsh Response: While Edward I’s conquest brought relative peace, resentment simmered among the Welsh for generations, fueling uprisings like that of Owain Glyndŵr in the 15th century.
Tips for Time Travellers
- Dress the Part: Wear period-appropriate attire to blend in with the crowd, but avoid looking too affluent—you don’t want to attract unwanted attention.
- Brush Up on Welsh History: Familiarize yourself with key figures and events to better understand the political and cultural dynamics.
- Mind the Weather: February in Caernarfon can be chilly, so pack a warm cloak and sturdy boots.
Want to Know More?
For further exploration of Edward of Caernarfon’s investiture and its historical significance, check out these resources:
- Books:
- The Plantagenets by Dan Jones
- Wales: A History by Gwynfor Evans
- Websites:
- Historic UK: Edward I and Wales (www.historic-uk.com)
- Cadw: Caernarfon Castle (www.cadw.gov.wales)
- Articles:
- The Prince of Wales Title: A History on BBC History Extra
- Caernarfon: A Fortress of Power in History Today
Caernarfon in February 1301 offers a front-row seat to a pivotal moment in British and Welsh history. From the grandeur of the castle to the rugged beauty of Snowdonia, this trip is a journey through medieval politics, culture, and landscapes. Don’t miss your chance to witness the birth of a royal tradition—just be careful where you tread, as tensions between locals and occupiers run high!
