Early History and Norman Conquest
The origins of Swansea Castle can be traced back to the aftermath of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Following William the Conqueror’s successful invasion of England, the Normans expanded their influence into Wales, seeking to consolidate their power and control over the Welsh territories.
The castle was initially built as a motte-and-bailey structure in the late 11th or early 12th century by the Norman lord Henry de Beaumont, later known as the Earl of Warwick. This wooden fortification was constructed strategically on the banks of the River Tawe to control the surrounding area and establish Norman dominance over the native Welsh population.
The motte (an earthen mound) was topped with a wooden keep, surrounded by a bailey (an enclosed courtyard), which served as a defensive stronghold and a base for military operations in the region. Swansea’s strategic coastal position made it an important point for trade and military control. shutdown123