article_snippet: The impressive landmark has a fascinating history, from being build as a wooden Iron Age settlement by Gilbert de Clare in 1100, to enduring medieval battles between Normans and Welsh rebels, and hosting Wales' first Eisteddfod in 1176.
article_snippet: In 1165, The Lord Rhys and The Lord Rhys Welsh army captured the castle and Cardigan became the first town in the country to be occupied by Welsh .
article_snippet: A lesser known siege took place in 1138 when the Welsh attacked the Norman base with the help of Viking mercenaries .