C is for CHEPSTOW CASTLE

Welcome to C week of Round 20 at ABC Wednesday! I'd like to show you Chepstow Castle that I visited last summer while I was in Wales. It is the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification in Britain and construction began in 1067 under the Norman Lord William fitzOsbern. Those of you who remember your history lessons may recall the 1067 was the Battle of Hastings under the leadership of William the Conqueror and fitzOsbern was one of his pals.

What really impressed me was that it is built on a high rock above the swirling waters of the River Wye, standing guard over a strategic crossing point into Wales (from England). From the outside, it appears to be in good shape, but upon entering, one couldn't help but notice the views over the ramparts, over which I leaned in order to get photos of the outsides of the stone walls. Across the river were cows contentedly munching away at the green green grass of Monmouthsire, Wales. Outside overlooking the river was a straw replica of a horse mounted by a Welsh soldier holding the Welsh flag (see photo).

All photos are mine unless otherwise stated as "courtesy of Mr. G)