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The borough town developed north of Neath in the southern Wales county of Glamorgan. Beginning in 1,000 BC Celtic tribes ruled the land establishing permanent settlements. The Silures held the dominant community. The Romans invaded in 47 AD constructing military forts with connecting roads. A particularly large fort encompassed over 7 acres (3 hectares) and overlooked the River Taff. Battles frequently erupted between the locals and the Romans, but the two communities finally experienced peace. Farms emerged, supplying the fort with beef, grain and imported seafood. The Romans, along with Irish and French monks spread Christianity throughout Wales.
The Roman Empire fell and the soldiers departed around 380 AD. Irish pirates invaded the coastlands and eventually moved inwards, establishing settlements. The community adopted its name in honour of the Christian daughter of tribal chieftain Brychan. A band of local Picts slew the young girl and the site of her murder became known as Methyr Tydfil. The Saxons arrived in 490 AD and found a thickly wooded region having mountain slope farms. Wars ensued between the locals and the invaders who eventually established a settlement in the lowlands while the high country remained under Welsh rule. The Normans constructed the now ruined Morlais Castle by the year 1093.
The community remained agricultural with some trading between communities. An ironworks industry emerged and lasted until the 1640s. A century later, farms comprised the area. The wealthy Guest and Crawshay families entered Merthyr and began developing coal and iron industries in the mid 1700s. The Royal Navy bought the iron for cannons and ships.
The ironworks also helped develop local railways, which eventually linked Merthyr to the coast and various parts of Britain. In 1804, a local man constructed the world’s first steam locomotive named “The Iron Horse.” The train delivered 10 tons of coal to Aberynon. The local ironworks industry also supplied the rails that connected Russia with Siberia.
Trouble developed between the mineworkers and the owners over insufficient wages. The Merthyr Rising in 1831 pitted 10,000 workers against police and military soldiers in an effort to gain better conditions and wages. The miners lost, but developed illegal trade unions. The men’s determination eventually led to the Reform Act and the Chartism movement. Many discouraged workers and families left the area, travelling to America in hopes of finding employment at the Pittsburgh steel mills.
By 1851, the population of Merthyr grew to over 46,000 and the industries continued. In 1911, the population soared to over 80,000 residents and Merthyr earned status as a borough. War related industries developed during WWII, which replaced the previous coal and ironworks companies.
Activities and Attractions
The countryside surrounding Merthyr Tydfil has miles and miles of trails travelling through woodlands and scenic waterways. The Taff Trail connects the ancient town of Brecon with the country’s state capital of Cardiff. Enjoy fishing, sailing and windsurfing in the River Taff. Hike into the hills and indulge in abseiling, canyoning or hangliding.
Venture north to the Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a collection of local history that spans over two centuries. See Egyptian, Greek and Roman artefacts along with art obtained from the Asia. Explore the history of mining in the community hear the stories of labourers and martyrs.
Enjoy a collection of porcelain pottery, created in the area. Enjoy the art collection created by Wales’s artists and see the artefacts that bring Welsh history ro life. The park surrounding the castle contains 150 acres (67 hectares) of sprawling lawns woodlands and lakes. Located by the castle itself, visitors find beautifully maintained gardens. A family play zone, constructed on the property, provides hours of entertainment with the opening of a new Splashpad. A café nearby allows parents to relax while youngsters of all ages have fun in the water.
Visit the home of famous Welsh native Joseph Parry, who worked in the local mines by the age of 9 and grew to become a world-renowned composer. Parry wrote at least 1,000 anthems, orchestral pieces and songs.
Journey north of Merthyr to the National Showcaves for Wales. The location has 10 areas of entertainment for an adventurous day out. Three different paths meander through the cave system displaying and ancient burial room and civilizations that used the caves thousands of years ago. Be on the lookout for various formations that include interesting bacon formations, straw stalagtities and massive pillars. Marvel at the underground passagways carved by the river, which still flows through the caverns. See waterfalls and formations that resemble waterfalls frozen in time. Venture through the woodland path and come face to face with dozens of life-sized dinosaurs. See how they lived and why they no longer exist. Additional exhibits include a Celtic Iron Age Village, museum and Shire Horse Centre.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests enjoy elegantly decorated, spacious, but affordable rooms in Merthyr hotels. Whether needing space for family get togethers or corporate meetings, facilities offer immense convention rooms with catering services that accommodate every need.
The Harvester Salad and Grill offers a friendly, family environment for enjoying freshly prepared grills, salads, sides and desserts. Feast on chicken straight off the rotisserie or a burger made to order. Create a delicious salad from the cart containing a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables and pasta. Indulge in a decadent sundae with layers of cake, creams, fruit and ice cream.
Accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil
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