Powis Castle is a medieval castle located in Powys,
Wales. Powis castle was the fortress of
a dynasty of Welsh princes in Mid-Wales.
The castle was built by Welsh prince Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn in 1252
AD. He wished to establish his
independence from the North Wales princes, who were traditional enemies. Powis Castle was built by the Welsh, unlike
many of the castles in Northern Wales, which were built by the English. Gruffudd was forced into exile in 1274 and
the castle was destroyed. Within three
years, Gruffudd returned and rebuilt Powis Castle. With no male heir, the castle and lordship
passed to an heiress, Hawise, who married Sir John Charlton from
Shropshire. Descendants of Charlton held
the castle for over 100 years. Again, due
to the lack of a male heir, the castle passed to two daughters. In 1578, Sir Edward Herbert leased the castle
and eventually purchased it in 1587. In
1644, Powis Castle was captured by Parliamentary Troops and not returned to the
family until the restoration of King Charles II. The fortress is known for its remarkable
State Bedroom, extensive gardens, deer park, and beauty. The castle is under the ownership of the
National Trust.
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