Cearphilly Castle in Wales is one of the largest castles in Britain, being only slightly smaller than Windsor Castle. It was built in the late 13th century by Gilbert de Clare as a stronghold to prevent south Wales from falling into the hands of Welsh leader Llywelyn the Last. The castles main defense from attackers was the surrounding water which made it almost impossible for attackers to gain advantage.
Caerphilly Castle was burnt in 1270 but was rebuilt by De Clare. The castle was also the site of multiple sieges in both 1294 and 1316. These attacks proved fruitless however and the castle remained remains to this day though slightly worse for wear.
Much of the castle today still carries a lot of the original 13th century work although repairs and alterations have been made to some parts of the castle. The castle was no longer needed and so was abandoned in the 15th century thought it is now open for tours and the moats have since been re-flooded.
There are said to be a few spirits haunting this castle including those of the De Clare family and soldiers who have not been identified.
The castle is said to be home to one spirit in particular known as 'The Green Lady.' Opinions are divided on why exactly she has that name. Some say it's due to the ivy that grows over the structures walls while others claim she wears green to highlight her husbands envy.
Gilbert de Clair was married to a beautiful woman, Princess Alice de la Marche of Angouleme; niece of King Henry II. As passionate as she was, she eventually grew to resent her husband and her attention was quickly caught by a handsome visiting prince named Tew Teg Gruffydd the Fair and they quickly became lovers.
Stories say he was overcome by guilt and confessed his sin to a monk who was loyal to the Earl Gilbert de Clare. The monk quickly told the Earl about the confession and he is said to have flown into a rage and demanded the princes' death.
The monk, was hanged from what is now known as 'Monks Vale' after Gruffydd learned of his betrayal. Not long after the Earls men caught up to Gruffydd and he too was hanged for his affair with the Earls wife.
The Earl then sent word to his traitorous wife and she is said to have died of a broken heart as well as shock at the news of her lovers death. Though she did not die at the castle, stories say her spirit resides there, still longing for her lover.
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