HARLECH, Wales — The Two Kings statue by Ivor Roberts-Jones stands in front of Harlech Castle in Gwynedd, North Wales. Unveiled in 1984, the sculpture depicts a scene from the Welsh Mabinogion, with Bendigeidfran carrying his nephew Gwern. This poignant artwork contrasts with the 13th-century castle built by Edward I, part of UNESCO's "Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd" World Heritage Site.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Two Kings statue at Harlech Castle presents a powerful juxtaposition of ancient Welsh mythology and medieval military architecture. Created by renowned sculptor Ivor Roberts-Jones and unveiled in 1984, the artwork draws inspiration from the Mabinogion, a collection of Welsh folklore and legends. The sculpture depicts Bendigeidfran carrying the body of his nephew Gwern, symbolizing the tragic consequences of conflict. This representation from the tale of Branwen serves as a somber reflection on the futility of war, contrasting sharply with the martial purpose of Harlech Castle looming behind it. Harlech Castle, constructed between 1282 and 1289 under the direction of Edward I, stands as a formidable example of medieval military architecture. Part of Edward's "iron ring" of fortresses built to secure his conquest of Wales, the castle's strategic position overlooking Tremadog Bay made it a key stronghold. Today, both the statue and the castle form part of the rich cultural landscape of North Wales. As components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd," they offer visitors a unique blend of artistic interpretation, mythological storytelling, and historical significance, encapsulating centuries of Welsh heritage.
Size: 4258px × 2833px
Location: Harlech Castle, Harlech, Gwynedd, United Kingdom
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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