Bangor

Bangor is a city in Gwynedd, a county in Wales, United Kingdom. It is one of the smallest cities in the UK and the oldest city in Wales. Despite its size, Bangor hosts the Bangor University, one of the country's major universities.

History

Bangor's history extends back to the founding of a monastic establishment on the site of Bangor Cathedral by the Celtic saint Saint Deiniol in the early 6th century AD. The name 'Bangor' itself comes from a Welsh word for a type of fenced-in enclosure, such as was originally surrounded the cathedral site.

Geography

Bangor is located between the Snowdonia mountain range and the Irish Sea. It is close to the Menai Strait, a narrow sea channel that separates the island of Anglesey from the Welsh mainland.

Economy

The economy of Bangor is dominated by the public sector. Bangor University and the NHS are the city's largest employers. The city also has a growing technology sector, with several companies specialising in software development and digital technology based in the area.

Culture

Bangor has a vibrant cultural scene for a city of its size. The city hosts the annual North Wales Music Festival, which attracts musicians and visitors from across the UK. The Pontio Arts Centre, a multi-purpose venue, is the cultural hub of the city, hosting concerts, films, and theatrical performances.

Education

Bangor is home to Bangor University, one of the oldest and most prestigious degree awarding institutions in the UK. The university has a strong reputation for its research in areas such as electronic engineering and psychology.

Transport

Bangor is served by Bangor railway station, which offers regular services to destinations such as Cardiff, Manchester, and London. The city is also served by a network of bus services, and the A55 road, a major road that runs along the north coast of Wales.

See also

• List of cities in Wales
• Gwynedd
• Bangor University