Ceredigion

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County in Wales

Template:Infobox UK county

Ceredigion is a county in Wales, situated on the west coast of the country. It is bordered by the counties of Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys, and by Gwynedd to the north. The county town is Aberystwyth, which is also the largest town in the county.

History

Ceredigion has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area was originally part of the Kingdom of Ceredigion, which was established in the early medieval period. The name "Ceredigion" is derived from the Welsh word "Ceredig," who was a son of Cunedda, a prominent figure in Welsh history.

During the Norman invasion of Wales, Ceredigion was a site of significant conflict. The Normans built several castles in the area, including Cardigan Castle and Aberystwyth Castle. In the 13th century, Ceredigion became part of the Principality of Wales under the rule of Llywelyn the Great.

Geography

Ceredigion is known for its stunning landscapes, which include rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and lush valleys. The county is home to several notable natural features, such as the Cambrian Mountains and the River Teifi. The coastline of Ceredigion is part of the Cardigan Bay, which is famous for its marine wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins and Atlantic grey seals.

Economy

The economy of Ceredigion is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and education. The county has a strong agricultural tradition, with sheep farming being particularly important. Tourism is also a significant industry, with visitors attracted to the area's natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural events.

The presence of Aberystwyth University contributes significantly to the local economy. The university is a major employer in the region and attracts students from all over the world.

Culture

Ceredigion has a vibrant cultural scene, with a strong emphasis on the Welsh language and traditions. The county hosts several annual events, including the National Eisteddfod of Wales, which celebrates Welsh music, literature, and performance.

The county is also known for its traditional music and dance, with many local groups dedicated to preserving and promoting these aspects of Welsh culture.

Transport

Ceredigion is served by a network of roads and public transport services. The main road through the county is the A487 road, which runs along the coast from Cardigan to Aberystwyth. There are also several bus services that connect the towns and villages within the county.

The nearest railway station is in Aberystwyth, which provides connections to other parts of Wales and the UK.

Education

Ceredigion has a range of educational institutions, from primary schools to higher education. Aberystwyth University is the most prominent institution in the county, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Notable People

Several notable individuals have been associated with Ceredigion, including:

• Dylan Thomas, the famous Welsh poet and writer.
• T. E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, who spent part of his childhood in the county.

Related Pages

• Aberystwyth
• Cardigan Bay
• Cambrian Mountains
• Aberystwyth University
• National Eisteddfod of Wales