Archaeology/History 5-Day June Break StDavids Pembrokeshire2
We offer you the chance to explore the archaeological and historical delights of Pembrokeshire, West Wales in a wonderful week of guided tours, discussions and walking in a very stunning part of Wales only four minutes drive from the Cathedral City of St Davids, Pembrokeshire.
This fully inclusive break includes all food and accommodation and an optional daily programme put together by Trevor Rowley, who has written extensively on the Normans, with the emphasis on relaxation and enjoyment, afterall, this is a holiday!
Your base will be Pen Rhiw, a former rectory (early Victorian) and wonderful old building in it's own right (see photo).
Together, we will visit the Anglo-Norman cathedral and Bishop's Palace of St Davids. The late 12th c. cathedral was built in solid Norman style on the site of a monastery founded by St David in the 5th century. There will also be excursions to Pembroke and Manorbier Castles.
The great citadel of Pembroke was established by Roger de Montgomery in 1093, and became a vital base for the conquest of the rest of Wales and later of Ireland. A series of formidable fortifications culminated in William the Marshall's great castle in the late 12th century.
Manorbier is famous as the birthplace of the chronicler Gerald of Wales in 1146, who became an important link between the Welsh and the Normans. A homely but impressive fortress, it has a delightful coastal setting and a lovely beach!
A boat trip to Caldey Island takes us to the home of a modern monastery incorporating the evocative remains of Norman Benedictine buildings. There is also a chapel on the site of an earlier Celtic monastery where St Samson, patron saint of Brittany, was abbot in about AD 550.
There will be plenty of time to explore the fascinating little city of St Davids, and to learn about the Norman church in Wales.
There is also a free day for personal exploration and relaxation, enjoying the company of your fellow guests.
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