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| County
Town: Caernarfon County Population: 117,000 (estimate) |
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Gwynedd
is the second largest county in Wales with a land area of 2,548 sq km
(984 sq miles). Predominantly mountainous, the highest peaks are in the
northwest of the Snowdonia National Park. There are 14 peaks over 915
m (3,000 ft) in Snowdonia, of which Mount Snowdon is the highest point
in England and Wales standing at 1,085 m (3,560 feet). The lowland areas
are confined to the coastal region, with the Lleyn Peninsula designated
an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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There
is much evidence to suggest the area was settled in prehistoric times,
and the Romans built many defensive forts in the region. The Normans arrived
in 1070, but met with strong resistance, and it was not until 1283 that
Edward I of England finally conquered Gwynedd, building many fine castles,
including Caernarfon. During the 15th century Owen Glendower led a rebellion
against the English, but failed in his attempt at ridding English rule.
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Gwynedd's
economy is largely supported by agriculture, farming and tourism, but
over the past 200 years granite and slate quarrying has become highly
prosperous. Today the mountains attract climbers and walkers, and the
Llanberis Mountain Railway can be used as a shortcut to the summit of
Mount Snowdon. Since the late 19th century the coastal resorts have also
attracted holidaymakers, of note are Barmouth, Porthmadog and Pwllheli.
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