Dolbadarn Castle

The round tower of Dolbadarn Castle appears to have been built around 1230 by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. The surrounding ranges which are down at ground level were probably built earlier. The tower still rises to its original height.

Dolbadarn is a Welsh constructed tower which includes a basement and two levels above it. The basement was unlit and entry was gained through a trap door on the first level. The upper story may have been used as a prison for Owain ap Gruffudd.

In 1283, the castle fell to the Earl of Pembroke and two years later, it was abandoned. Much of it's stone and timber was reused to build Caernarfon Castle. The round tower may have been used in the 1400's as a prison but soon after was left to ruin.