1 00:00:02,536 --> 00:00:06,955 Narrator: Wales, a land of myth and majesty, 2 00:00:06,966 --> 00:00:09,708 Of legendary kings and warrior rebels. 3 00:00:12,546 --> 00:00:14,629 With more fortresses per square mile 4 00:00:14,640 --> 00:00:16,765 Than anywhere else in the world. 5 00:00:18,719 --> 00:00:22,137 From the hills that put the stone in stonehenge, 6 00:00:22,148 --> 00:00:23,889 To the secret hideaways 7 00:00:23,899 --> 00:00:27,559 Where led zeppelin and queen changed the history of rock... 8 00:00:27,570 --> 00:00:29,895 A country that forged its own destiny 9 00:00:29,905 --> 00:00:32,948 From the great monuments of its industrial past. 10 00:00:34,493 --> 00:00:37,319 A legacy, celebrated in architecture, 11 00:00:37,329 --> 00:00:39,830 Capturing the heart and the soul. 12 00:00:39,907 --> 00:00:43,241 Soar high above fairy tale castles, 13 00:00:43,252 --> 00:00:44,493 Over rivers, 14 00:00:44,503 --> 00:00:46,837 And as close to the edge as you dare. 15 00:00:49,300 --> 00:00:54,586 Meet a people defined by poetry, song, and sport... 16 00:00:54,597 --> 00:00:56,254 A nation that bears the indelible marks 17 00:00:56,265 --> 00:00:59,007 Of 2,000 years of invasion, 18 00:00:59,018 --> 00:01:01,676 But never once lost its identity. 19 00:01:01,687 --> 00:01:05,397 This is wales, as you've never seen it before. 20 00:01:10,938 --> 00:01:25,617 ♪ 21 00:01:25,628 --> 00:01:27,369 The size of new jersey, 22 00:01:27,379 --> 00:01:30,464 With a population of just 3 million people, 23 00:01:30,541 --> 00:01:33,550 Wales has always been fiercely proud of its autonomy. 24 00:01:36,388 --> 00:01:39,631 Simon evans is originally from the southeast of England 25 00:01:39,642 --> 00:01:42,551 But moved here with his family when he retired. 26 00:01:42,561 --> 00:01:44,812 This raised bank of earth close to the welsh border 27 00:01:44,888 --> 00:01:46,313 Runs near his home, 28 00:01:46,390 --> 00:01:49,149 And he and his son tom walk here regularly. 29 00:01:50,569 --> 00:01:54,062 A few years ago, simon trekked its entire length, 30 00:01:54,073 --> 00:01:57,908 A distance of around 177 miles. 31 00:01:57,985 --> 00:02:00,485 In fact, this is an ancient boundary 32 00:02:00,496 --> 00:02:01,820 Between England and wales, 33 00:02:01,831 --> 00:02:03,321 Which follows long stretches 34 00:02:03,332 --> 00:02:05,582 Of the current border between the two countries. 35 00:02:07,002 --> 00:02:09,494 It was constructed more than 1,200 years ago 36 00:02:09,505 --> 00:02:11,580 By the anglo-saxon king offa 37 00:02:11,590 --> 00:02:13,966 To divide his territory from wales. 38 00:02:15,502 --> 00:02:17,419 According to ancient tradition, 39 00:02:17,429 --> 00:02:19,930 The english would cut off the ears of any welshman 40 00:02:20,007 --> 00:02:22,015 Found to the east of offa's dyke, 41 00:02:22,092 --> 00:02:24,092 And the welsh would hang every englishman 42 00:02:24,103 --> 00:02:25,727 Found to the west of it. 43 00:02:26,939 --> 00:02:28,930 Thankfully, for these two englishmen, 44 00:02:28,941 --> 00:02:30,899 The old traditions have lapsed. 45 00:02:32,361 --> 00:02:34,936 But the cultural significance of offa's dyke, 46 00:02:34,947 --> 00:02:37,614 Like that of hadrian's wall on the scottish border, 47 00:02:37,691 --> 00:02:39,357 Is clear. 48 00:02:39,368 --> 00:02:42,360 Wales and England were, and always will be, 49 00:02:42,371 --> 00:02:44,121 Separate places. 50 00:02:44,198 --> 00:02:47,032 ♪ 51 00:02:47,042 --> 00:02:51,962 The first ancestors of the welsh arrived here 29,000 years ago, 52 00:02:52,039 --> 00:02:53,380 Long before rising sea levels 53 00:02:53,457 --> 00:02:56,216 Separated britain from mainland europe. 54 00:02:59,213 --> 00:03:00,971 Today, two-thirds of the population 55 00:03:01,048 --> 00:03:03,465 Live in the valleys and towns of the south, 56 00:03:03,475 --> 00:03:05,642 Including the country's largest city 57 00:03:05,719 --> 00:03:07,477 And its capital, cardiff. 58 00:03:08,305 --> 00:03:09,638 [boat horn blows] 59 00:03:09,648 --> 00:03:12,733 In the 19th century, coal exported from south wales 60 00:03:12,809 --> 00:03:17,321 Fueled the furnaces and boilers of the world. 61 00:03:17,397 --> 00:03:18,897 The booming port of cardiff 62 00:03:18,908 --> 00:03:21,658 Attracted thousands of migrant workers. 63 00:03:23,570 --> 00:03:26,163 Back then, the neighborhood of tiger bay 64 00:03:26,240 --> 00:03:27,998 Was an infamous dockland quarter, 65 00:03:28,075 --> 00:03:30,918 Home to the city's red-light district. 66 00:03:32,504 --> 00:03:35,422 An unlikely location for this lutheran church. 67 00:03:37,501 --> 00:03:40,302 But not to the norwegian seafarers who settled here. 68 00:03:42,014 --> 00:03:44,431 In 1868, they built it 69 00:03:44,508 --> 00:03:46,841 As a place to meet and worship together. 70 00:03:46,852 --> 00:03:51,846 ♪ 71 00:03:51,857 --> 00:03:53,440 In recent years, 72 00:03:53,517 --> 00:03:54,683 The waterfront has become home 73 00:03:54,693 --> 00:03:57,361 To somewhat more imposing buildings, 74 00:03:57,437 --> 00:04:00,280 Including this glass and steel edifice. 75 00:04:00,407 --> 00:04:03,441 It's the national assembly, or senedd in welsh, 76 00:04:03,452 --> 00:04:05,452 Home of the country's parliament. 77 00:04:06,613 --> 00:04:08,446 Nearby, the millennium center, 78 00:04:08,457 --> 00:04:10,707 With its facade inscribed with the words 79 00:04:10,784 --> 00:04:12,951 Of welsh poet gwyneth lewis, 80 00:04:12,962 --> 00:04:15,203 Is a venue for ballet, theatre, 81 00:04:15,214 --> 00:04:18,298 And the headquarters of the welsh national opera. 82 00:04:18,375 --> 00:04:22,302 ♪ 83 00:04:22,513 --> 00:04:26,548 Cardiff castle was built by the normans in 1081, 84 00:04:26,558 --> 00:04:29,476 15 years after their king, william the conqueror, 85 00:04:29,553 --> 00:04:32,479 Invaded britain from northern France. 86 00:04:32,556 --> 00:04:35,732 Constructed on the remains of a third-century roman fort, 87 00:04:35,809 --> 00:04:38,318 This legacy of two major conquests 88 00:04:38,395 --> 00:04:40,988 Was the seed from which the modern city grew. 89 00:04:42,899 --> 00:04:45,742 Though expanded and redeveloped many times, 90 00:04:45,819 --> 00:04:49,997 It remains an iconic feature of the welsh capital. 91 00:04:50,073 --> 00:04:51,248 In the 1860s, 92 00:04:51,325 --> 00:04:52,916 This was the family home 93 00:04:52,993 --> 00:04:55,994 Of the fabulously wealthy john crichton-stuart. 94 00:04:56,005 --> 00:04:58,005 He hated growing up at the castle 95 00:04:58,081 --> 00:05:00,915 And later commissioned architect william burges 96 00:05:00,926 --> 00:05:05,003 To transform it in lavish gothic revival style. 97 00:05:05,014 --> 00:05:07,431 Burges added new towers, a roof garden, 98 00:05:07,507 --> 00:05:09,433 A sumptuous banqueting hall, 99 00:05:09,509 --> 00:05:12,602 And this magnificent 150-foot clock tower. 100 00:05:12,679 --> 00:05:14,855 [air raid siren] 101 00:05:14,931 --> 00:05:16,514 During world war ii, 102 00:05:16,525 --> 00:05:19,443 Air raid shelters tunneled into the medieval walls 103 00:05:19,519 --> 00:05:21,611 Protected 1,800 people. 104 00:05:21,688 --> 00:05:25,115 ♪ 105 00:05:25,192 --> 00:05:28,860 In 1947, after the death of crichton's son, 106 00:05:28,871 --> 00:05:31,863 The family bequeathed the castle to the city of cardiff. 107 00:05:31,874 --> 00:05:35,792 ♪ 108 00:05:35,869 --> 00:05:40,789 [gulls squawking] 109 00:05:40,799 --> 00:05:43,050 ♪ 110 00:05:43,126 --> 00:05:44,551 Close to the castle 111 00:05:44,628 --> 00:05:47,879 Is the home ground and high church of welsh rugby, 112 00:05:47,890 --> 00:05:50,015 Cardiff's principality stadium. 113 00:05:52,219 --> 00:05:53,635 The arena, 114 00:05:53,645 --> 00:05:56,396 Built from 56,000 tons of concrete and steel, 115 00:05:56,473 --> 00:05:59,733 Can seat more than 74,000 supporters. 116 00:06:01,978 --> 00:06:06,239 Since 1999, it's hosted three world cup tournaments. 117 00:06:08,985 --> 00:06:11,495 Rugby is wales's national sport 118 00:06:11,571 --> 00:06:13,955 And a cherished part of its cultural identity. 119 00:06:15,751 --> 00:06:19,911 To compete here is the dream of every young welsh player. 120 00:06:19,922 --> 00:06:25,583 ♪ 121 00:06:25,594 --> 00:06:29,087 Many pursue that dream at rugby clubs like this one, 122 00:06:29,098 --> 00:06:32,841 A few miles north of cardiff in the town of pontypridd. 123 00:06:32,851 --> 00:06:35,677 Rugby actually originated in northern England 124 00:06:35,687 --> 00:06:37,262 In the 1820s, 125 00:06:37,272 --> 00:06:40,607 But no one embraces it quite like the welsh. 126 00:06:40,684 --> 00:06:43,351 There's hardly a town, factory, or community in wales 127 00:06:43,362 --> 00:06:45,070 Without its own team. 128 00:06:47,441 --> 00:06:48,949 Full back lloyd rowlands 129 00:06:49,025 --> 00:06:51,609 Has been playing rugby since he was nine. 130 00:06:51,620 --> 00:06:52,944 Now semi-professional, 131 00:06:52,955 --> 00:06:55,247 The training is a little more intense. 132 00:06:56,792 --> 00:07:00,460 But every try takes him one step closer to the big league. 133 00:07:00,587 --> 00:07:05,298 ♪ 134 00:07:05,375 --> 00:07:08,960 Of course, rugby isn't the only way to achieve legend status 135 00:07:08,971 --> 00:07:10,720 Here in wales. 136 00:07:11,890 --> 00:07:13,965 Pontypridd is also hometown 137 00:07:13,976 --> 00:07:16,634 To one of the country's most famous sons, 138 00:07:16,645 --> 00:07:18,687 Singer sir tom jones. 139 00:07:19,982 --> 00:07:22,315 Long before he achieved global stardom, 140 00:07:22,392 --> 00:07:24,401 The 100-million-record-selling artist 141 00:07:24,478 --> 00:07:26,987 Worked at a glove factory in town. 142 00:07:28,991 --> 00:07:31,316 At home here in his family's end-of-terrace house 143 00:07:31,326 --> 00:07:32,817 On laura street, 144 00:07:32,828 --> 00:07:36,070 He honed his skills listening to american blues singers 145 00:07:36,081 --> 00:07:37,655 Like big bill broonzy 146 00:07:37,666 --> 00:07:40,241 And mahalia jackson, the queen of gospel. 147 00:07:40,252 --> 00:07:42,577 ♪ 148 00:07:42,588 --> 00:07:45,246 Like the voice of its most famous singer, 149 00:07:45,257 --> 00:07:48,258 Wales has always been a force to reckon with. 150 00:07:50,003 --> 00:07:51,753 In a.D. 43, 151 00:07:51,763 --> 00:07:54,097 Just ten years after the death of jesus, 152 00:07:54,174 --> 00:07:56,933 The romans invaded britain. 153 00:07:57,010 --> 00:07:58,176 Within five years, 154 00:07:58,187 --> 00:08:00,520 They controlled most of the southwest. 155 00:08:00,647 --> 00:08:01,763 But here in wales, 156 00:08:01,773 --> 00:08:03,523 The empire would struggle to overcome 157 00:08:03,734 --> 00:08:05,108 The fierce native tribes 158 00:08:05,185 --> 00:08:06,776 For another three decades. 159 00:08:08,780 --> 00:08:12,574 Relics of the roman occupation survive to this day. 160 00:08:15,370 --> 00:08:18,955 Near the village of caerleon lie the ruins of a military base 161 00:08:19,032 --> 00:08:22,083 Once manned by 5,000 elite roman troops. 162 00:08:25,455 --> 00:08:28,623 Close by are the remains of a great oval amphitheatre 163 00:08:28,634 --> 00:08:30,884 Built around a.D. 90, 164 00:08:30,961 --> 00:08:32,961 Where as many as 6,000 spectators 165 00:08:32,971 --> 00:08:36,556 Would have witnessed brutal gladiatorial combat. 166 00:08:36,767 --> 00:08:42,562 [crowd cheering] 167 00:08:42,773 --> 00:08:45,815 The romans would occupy wales for over three centuries, 168 00:08:45,892 --> 00:08:50,820 From 78 a.D. To 383 a.D. 169 00:08:50,897 --> 00:08:53,240 This is the first town they founded-- 170 00:08:53,316 --> 00:08:56,243 Caerwent, near the southern city of newport. 171 00:08:59,081 --> 00:09:02,749 Sections of the original first-century wall still remain, 172 00:09:02,826 --> 00:09:05,418 Some rising up to 17 feet high. 173 00:09:07,506 --> 00:09:10,665 It's one of the most perfectly preserved roman fortifications 174 00:09:10,676 --> 00:09:12,342 In northern europe. 175 00:09:14,504 --> 00:09:16,170 In the early 5th century, 176 00:09:16,181 --> 00:09:17,347 With the empire under attack 177 00:09:17,424 --> 00:09:20,008 By barbarian armies all over europe, 178 00:09:20,018 --> 00:09:23,270 The emperor honorius withdrew his garrisons from britain. 179 00:09:25,107 --> 00:09:27,023 And so ended roman rule. 180 00:09:27,100 --> 00:09:32,112 ♪ 181 00:09:32,188 --> 00:09:35,273 Soon, wales would be conquered all over again. 182 00:09:35,284 --> 00:09:38,359 And this time, it would surrender without a fight. 183 00:09:38,370 --> 00:09:44,791 ♪ 184 00:09:44,868 --> 00:09:46,951 Between the sixth and eighth centuries, 185 00:09:46,962 --> 00:09:48,795 The pagan tribes of wales 186 00:09:48,872 --> 00:09:51,923 Were converted to christianity by missionaries from ireland. 187 00:09:54,219 --> 00:09:56,970 The age of the saints would see monastic settlements 188 00:09:57,047 --> 00:09:58,972 Established all over the country. 189 00:09:59,049 --> 00:10:03,059 First by the irish, then by the converted welsh. 190 00:10:03,136 --> 00:10:05,312 The sixth-century ruin of st. Non's chapel 191 00:10:05,388 --> 00:10:07,314 On the west coast of pembrokeshire 192 00:10:07,390 --> 00:10:09,482 Is said to be the birthplace of st. David, 193 00:10:09,559 --> 00:10:11,484 Wales's patron saint. 194 00:10:11,561 --> 00:10:16,314 ♪ 195 00:10:16,325 --> 00:10:19,409 In his time, st. David would spread christianity 196 00:10:19,486 --> 00:10:20,994 Throughout wales, England, 197 00:10:21,071 --> 00:10:23,321 And brittany in northern France. 198 00:10:23,332 --> 00:10:25,740 Here, half a mile from his birthplace, 199 00:10:25,751 --> 00:10:28,418 Stands the city named in his honor-- 200 00:10:28,495 --> 00:10:31,412 St. David's, population 2,000, 201 00:10:31,423 --> 00:10:33,590 Britain's smallest metropolis. 202 00:10:35,177 --> 00:10:38,086 The city's medieval cathedral was founded on the site 203 00:10:38,096 --> 00:10:40,930 Where st. David established a monastic community. 204 00:10:42,759 --> 00:10:45,935 A stone set into the altar is said to have been brought back 205 00:10:46,012 --> 00:10:48,938 From a pilgrimage st. David took to jerusalem. 206 00:10:50,266 --> 00:10:53,526 Near the cathedral lie the ruins of a medieval palace 207 00:10:53,603 --> 00:10:56,821 Built by 13th and 14th-century bishops. 208 00:10:58,200 --> 00:10:59,783 But in the 16th century, 209 00:10:59,859 --> 00:11:02,535 Bishop william barlow stripped the lead from the roof 210 00:11:02,612 --> 00:11:05,955 To pay for the dowries of his five daughters. 211 00:11:06,032 --> 00:11:08,041 The building fell into disrepair, 212 00:11:08,118 --> 00:11:09,617 Never to recover. 213 00:11:09,628 --> 00:11:13,538 ♪ 214 00:11:13,548 --> 00:11:17,208 St. David's cathedral has had a tumultuous history. 215 00:11:17,219 --> 00:11:20,720 Extensively damaged by an earthquake in 1247, 216 00:11:20,931 --> 00:11:23,807 It was modified many times over the next three centuries, 217 00:11:23,883 --> 00:11:26,226 And contains the tomb of edmund tudor, 218 00:11:26,302 --> 00:11:28,812 Grandfather of king henry viii of England. 219 00:11:28,888 --> 00:11:38,905 ♪ 220 00:11:38,982 --> 00:11:40,815 Just outside st. David's, 221 00:11:40,826 --> 00:11:44,068 Entomologist and ecologist dr. Sarah benyon 222 00:11:44,079 --> 00:11:47,155 Runs a farm unlike any other. 223 00:11:47,165 --> 00:11:50,074 In a bid to overcome a childhood phobia of insects, 224 00:11:50,085 --> 00:11:53,128 She immersed herself in all things creepy-crawly. 225 00:11:55,257 --> 00:11:57,665 The result was the bug farm, 226 00:11:57,676 --> 00:11:59,584 Established in 2015 227 00:11:59,594 --> 00:12:01,928 And now literally buzzing with activity. 228 00:12:04,758 --> 00:12:06,599 Here, guests can explore habitats 229 00:12:06,676 --> 00:12:08,676 Swarming with insect life, 230 00:12:08,687 --> 00:12:10,428 Visit the bug museum and zoo, 231 00:12:10,439 --> 00:12:12,605 And learn about the farm's cutting-edge research 232 00:12:12,682 --> 00:12:14,983 Into farmland biodiversity. 233 00:12:16,686 --> 00:12:19,863 They can also dine at the grub kitchen, 234 00:12:19,939 --> 00:12:23,450 Britain's first edible insect café. 235 00:12:23,526 --> 00:12:26,444 Delicacies on offer include bug burgers, 236 00:12:26,455 --> 00:12:27,695 Mealworm hummus, 237 00:12:27,706 --> 00:12:30,531 And their famous cricket cookies. 238 00:12:30,542 --> 00:12:34,794 ♪ 239 00:12:34,871 --> 00:12:36,546 Local producer gayle twitchen 240 00:12:36,623 --> 00:12:40,541 Tends beehives at six locations on st. David's peninsula, 241 00:12:40,552 --> 00:12:42,552 Including the bug farm. 242 00:12:42,629 --> 00:12:45,129 ♪ 243 00:12:45,140 --> 00:12:46,639 [bees buzzing] 244 00:12:46,716 --> 00:12:48,716 Just as the honey gayle harvests 245 00:12:48,727 --> 00:12:52,645 Is sweetened of this peninsula's wildflower meadows, 246 00:12:52,722 --> 00:12:54,397 The landscape of wales is imbued 247 00:12:54,474 --> 00:12:58,067 With one of the greatest legends of medieval britain. 248 00:12:58,144 --> 00:13:05,566 ♪ 249 00:13:05,577 --> 00:13:09,403 The great mountain range of snowdonia national park 250 00:13:09,414 --> 00:13:12,323 Includes some of the highest peaks in wales, 251 00:13:12,334 --> 00:13:14,325 Including the highest of them all, 252 00:13:14,336 --> 00:13:15,835 Mount snowdon. 253 00:13:16,046 --> 00:13:21,582 ♪ 254 00:13:21,593 --> 00:13:24,585 This 800-square-mile natural reserve 255 00:13:24,596 --> 00:13:26,003 Also preserves the legend 256 00:13:26,014 --> 00:13:28,890 Of an extraordinary mythical figure. 257 00:13:31,686 --> 00:13:34,095 In welsh, the name of mount snowdon 258 00:13:34,105 --> 00:13:36,681 Means "the tomb of rhita gawr," 259 00:13:36,691 --> 00:13:40,518 A fearsome giant supposedly slain by king arthur. 260 00:13:40,529 --> 00:13:43,187 As legend has it, the giant's body lies buried 261 00:13:43,198 --> 00:13:45,573 Under massive stones at the summit. 262 00:13:47,536 --> 00:13:49,035 This ridge is said to be the place 263 00:13:49,112 --> 00:13:51,362 Where arthur himself died, 264 00:13:51,373 --> 00:13:54,624 Killed in battle by his own son, mordred. 265 00:13:56,870 --> 00:13:59,295 Arthur's magical sword excalibur 266 00:13:59,372 --> 00:14:01,631 Is said to lie beneath glaslyn lake 267 00:14:01,708 --> 00:14:03,633 On the mountain's east flank, 268 00:14:03,710 --> 00:14:06,052 Cast into the icy waters by sir bedivere 269 00:14:06,129 --> 00:14:07,637 After the king's death. 270 00:14:07,714 --> 00:14:14,802 ♪ 271 00:14:14,813 --> 00:14:16,971 Snowdon's mystical beauty 272 00:14:16,982 --> 00:14:19,983 Attracts half a million visitors every year. 273 00:14:21,978 --> 00:14:26,239 The outlying region is home to over 28,000 people, 274 00:14:26,316 --> 00:14:27,490 Nearly two-thirds of whom 275 00:14:27,567 --> 00:14:29,492 Speak welsh as their first language. 276 00:14:29,569 --> 00:14:34,581 ♪ 277 00:14:34,657 --> 00:14:37,917 There are many routes to the top of wales's highest peak, 278 00:14:38,128 --> 00:14:42,580 But the most comfortable is the snowdon mountain railway. 279 00:14:42,591 --> 00:14:46,250 In 1896, steam locomotives began taking visitors 280 00:14:46,261 --> 00:14:48,169 From the village of llanberis 281 00:14:48,179 --> 00:14:50,930 On the 4.5-mile journey to the summit. 282 00:14:52,926 --> 00:14:54,934 The locomotives were built specially for the line 283 00:14:55,011 --> 00:14:56,510 In switzerland, 284 00:14:56,521 --> 00:14:59,188 The only country at that time with the required expertise 285 00:14:59,265 --> 00:15:02,400 To transport people safely up and down the mountain. 286 00:15:04,279 --> 00:15:06,354 Three of the original five locomotives 287 00:15:06,364 --> 00:15:08,356 Are still in service today, 288 00:15:08,366 --> 00:15:10,617 Over 120 years later. 289 00:15:10,693 --> 00:15:14,612 ♪ 290 00:15:14,623 --> 00:15:16,113 Every year, 291 00:15:16,124 --> 00:15:20,868 130,000 passengers brave the vertiginous 2.5-hour climb, 292 00:15:20,879 --> 00:15:23,630 Rewarded with spectacular views of the welsh landscape 293 00:15:23,706 --> 00:15:24,797 All the way up, 294 00:15:24,874 --> 00:15:26,374 Weather permitting. 295 00:15:26,384 --> 00:15:29,710 ♪ 296 00:15:29,721 --> 00:15:33,765 In 2009, this visitor center opened at the summit. 297 00:15:34,809 --> 00:15:36,217 On a clear day, 298 00:15:36,227 --> 00:15:37,885 Passengers alighting 299 00:15:37,896 --> 00:15:40,480 For a 30-minute stopover at the highest point in wales 300 00:15:40,556 --> 00:15:42,890 Can see all the way to ireland. 301 00:15:42,901 --> 00:15:50,064 ♪ 302 00:15:50,075 --> 00:15:52,325 The 19th-century english travel writer 303 00:15:52,402 --> 00:15:55,078 George borrow once wrote, 304 00:15:55,154 --> 00:15:58,081 "I never saw water falling so gracefully, 305 00:15:58,157 --> 00:16:01,876 So much like thin, beautiful threads as here." 306 00:16:02,829 --> 00:16:04,671 The object of his affection 307 00:16:04,747 --> 00:16:06,923 Was the great waterfall of pistyll rhaeadr 308 00:16:07,000 --> 00:16:09,300 In the northeast of snowdonia. 309 00:16:11,170 --> 00:16:12,920 This place, 310 00:16:12,931 --> 00:16:17,183 Where the river afon dysgynfa tumbles down a 240-foot cliff, 311 00:16:17,260 --> 00:16:19,852 Is known as one of the seven wonders of wales. 312 00:16:22,015 --> 00:16:26,526 Pistyll rhaeadr is not one, but three separate falls, 313 00:16:26,602 --> 00:16:30,446 Each adding its own complexity to the elegance of the cascade. 314 00:16:30,523 --> 00:16:42,450 ♪ 315 00:16:42,460 --> 00:16:45,128 Where there are mountains, there are lakes, 316 00:16:45,204 --> 00:16:47,547 And snowdonia has 250 of them. 317 00:16:47,623 --> 00:16:52,051 ♪ 318 00:16:52,262 --> 00:16:54,387 This one, called llyn padarn, 319 00:16:54,464 --> 00:16:56,931 Is popular with kayakers and paddleboarders. 320 00:16:59,969 --> 00:17:01,894 Lake bala to the east 321 00:17:01,971 --> 00:17:04,313 Is the largest natural lake in wales-- 322 00:17:04,390 --> 00:17:06,474 Rich pickings for anglers, 323 00:17:06,484 --> 00:17:09,477 Who come here for perch, pike, trout, and salmon. 324 00:17:09,487 --> 00:17:14,407 ♪ 325 00:17:14,484 --> 00:17:16,325 Barry evans and his son ilan 326 00:17:16,402 --> 00:17:19,078 Have fished these waters all their lives. 327 00:17:19,289 --> 00:17:21,664 But one fish they won't be landing today 328 00:17:21,741 --> 00:17:23,332 Is the gwyniad. 329 00:17:23,409 --> 00:17:26,252 It's an elusive species native to lake bala, 330 00:17:26,329 --> 00:17:28,504 Stranded here over 10,000 years ago 331 00:17:28,581 --> 00:17:30,915 At the end of the last ice age. 332 00:17:30,925 --> 00:17:33,760 It lurks in the deepest reaches of the lake, 333 00:17:33,836 --> 00:17:36,262 Far beyond the reach of rod and line. 334 00:17:36,339 --> 00:17:42,009 ♪ 335 00:17:42,020 --> 00:17:44,011 The picturesque village of tremadog 336 00:17:44,022 --> 00:17:45,855 On the outskirts of snowdonia 337 00:17:45,932 --> 00:17:48,441 Is the home to the hostel of snowdon lodge. 338 00:17:49,602 --> 00:17:51,778 In 1888, this was the birthplace 339 00:17:51,854 --> 00:17:54,280 Of archaeologist, soldier and writer 340 00:17:54,357 --> 00:17:56,440 Thomas edward lawrence, 341 00:17:56,451 --> 00:17:59,452 Known to the world as lawrence of arabia. 342 00:17:59,529 --> 00:18:02,446 In his classic book "the seven pillars of wisdom," 343 00:18:02,457 --> 00:18:05,282 Lawrence recounted his exploits in the middle east 344 00:18:05,293 --> 00:18:07,543 During the first world war. 345 00:18:07,620 --> 00:18:09,286 During that conflict, 346 00:18:09,297 --> 00:18:12,623 He helped lead an arab revolt against the ottoman empire-- 347 00:18:12,634 --> 00:18:16,377 A campaign immortalized in the classic 1962 film 348 00:18:16,387 --> 00:18:18,137 "lawrence of arabia." 349 00:18:18,348 --> 00:18:23,801 ♪ 350 00:18:23,812 --> 00:18:26,303 From wales's most colorful son 351 00:18:26,314 --> 00:18:29,816 To one of its most colorful towns. 352 00:18:29,892 --> 00:18:33,486 Located on a private peninsula off the snowdonia coast, 353 00:18:33,563 --> 00:18:34,812 The brightly colored buildings 354 00:18:34,823 --> 00:18:37,240 And enchanting parks of portmeirion 355 00:18:37,316 --> 00:18:40,827 Were built between 1925 and 1976. 356 00:18:41,913 --> 00:18:43,320 This fanciful landscape, 357 00:18:43,331 --> 00:18:45,832 Created in the style of an italian village, 358 00:18:45,908 --> 00:18:48,543 Was primarily designed as a tourist attraction. 359 00:18:50,496 --> 00:18:52,672 The entire village operates as a hotel, 360 00:18:52,748 --> 00:18:55,174 With guest rooms in each of its buildings. 361 00:18:55,385 --> 00:19:00,263 ♪ 362 00:19:00,339 --> 00:19:02,256 Portmeirion is perhaps best known 363 00:19:02,267 --> 00:19:06,435 As the filming location for the cult 1960s sci-fi series 364 00:19:06,512 --> 00:19:07,678 "the prisoner," 365 00:19:07,689 --> 00:19:09,605 About a british former secret agent 366 00:19:09,682 --> 00:19:13,192 Who is abducted and imprisoned in a mysterious coastal resort 367 00:19:13,403 --> 00:19:15,352 From which he can never seem to escape. 368 00:19:15,363 --> 00:19:18,856 ♪ 369 00:19:18,867 --> 00:19:20,199 Before his death, 370 00:19:20,410 --> 00:19:22,276 Portmeirion's unconventional architect, 371 00:19:22,287 --> 00:19:23,619 Clough williams ellis, 372 00:19:23,696 --> 00:19:25,946 Asked for his ashes to be launched 373 00:19:25,957 --> 00:19:28,875 Over the estuary in a rocket. 374 00:19:28,951 --> 00:19:31,377 His last request was eventually carried out 375 00:19:31,454 --> 00:19:33,621 On new year's eve, 1998. 376 00:19:33,631 --> 00:19:43,964 ♪ 377 00:19:43,975 --> 00:19:45,892 This structure in northeast wales 378 00:19:45,968 --> 00:19:47,810 Might look like a bridge. 379 00:19:47,887 --> 00:19:49,020 But it is more than that. 380 00:19:50,640 --> 00:19:52,899 This is the 200-year-old waterway 381 00:19:52,975 --> 00:19:54,650 Of pontcysyllte aqueduct. 382 00:19:56,646 --> 00:20:00,990 Crossing the river dee and rising 126 feet above it, 383 00:20:01,067 --> 00:20:02,825 The stone and cast-iron span 384 00:20:02,902 --> 00:20:05,653 Is an incredible feat of civil engineering 385 00:20:05,663 --> 00:20:08,122 That took ten years to design and build. 386 00:20:10,418 --> 00:20:12,585 Completed in 1805, 387 00:20:12,662 --> 00:20:15,922 Pontcysyllte is the longest and highest navigable aqueduct 388 00:20:15,998 --> 00:20:17,381 In britain. 389 00:20:18,593 --> 00:20:21,510 It's 100 feet long and five feet deep, 390 00:20:21,587 --> 00:20:26,015 Supported by arched iron ribs on 18 hollow masonry piers. 391 00:20:28,519 --> 00:20:31,512 The aqueduct was originally designed 392 00:20:31,522 --> 00:20:35,858 To transport coal, iron, slate, and limestone. 393 00:20:35,935 --> 00:20:38,611 Today, it's mainly sightseers 394 00:20:38,688 --> 00:20:40,604 Who are rewarded with incredible views 395 00:20:40,615 --> 00:20:41,948 Across the dee valley. 396 00:20:42,024 --> 00:20:47,453 ♪ 397 00:20:47,530 --> 00:20:50,790 Lake vyrnwy in north wales. 398 00:20:50,866 --> 00:20:52,449 130 years ago, 399 00:20:52,460 --> 00:20:55,169 This was a peaceful valley where a village once stood. 400 00:20:57,632 --> 00:21:00,708 Today, it's a watery playground for sportspeople 401 00:21:00,718 --> 00:21:03,627 Like professional adventurer dave proctor, 402 00:21:03,638 --> 00:21:06,555 Who runs an activity center nearby. 403 00:21:06,632 --> 00:21:09,517 He's been sailing these waters for almost 50 years. 404 00:21:10,812 --> 00:21:13,646 The great reservoir was built in 1888, 405 00:21:13,723 --> 00:21:15,139 And was once the main water supply 406 00:21:15,149 --> 00:21:18,693 For the city of liverpool, 80 miles to the north. 407 00:21:20,730 --> 00:21:23,647 Although swimming in vyrnwy is prohibited, 408 00:21:23,658 --> 00:21:25,324 Local diane thomas 409 00:21:25,535 --> 00:21:28,235 Makes the most of the lake on her doorstep. 410 00:21:28,246 --> 00:21:30,913 She recently completed a triathlon here, 411 00:21:30,990 --> 00:21:33,916 Part of which involved kayaking the full length of the lake. 412 00:21:35,745 --> 00:21:36,910 In the distance, 413 00:21:36,921 --> 00:21:38,912 What looks like a gothic-style tower 414 00:21:38,923 --> 00:21:41,841 Is actually an elegant water filtration system. 415 00:21:43,553 --> 00:21:46,012 In its day, the dam was britain's largest 416 00:21:46,088 --> 00:21:48,180 And supplied power to the local area 417 00:21:48,257 --> 00:21:50,266 Right up to the 1960s. 418 00:21:51,853 --> 00:21:55,012 But lake vyrnwy came at a cost. 419 00:21:55,023 --> 00:21:56,597 Flooding the valley 420 00:21:56,607 --> 00:21:59,275 Required the sacrifice of the village of llanwddyn, 421 00:21:59,352 --> 00:22:02,445 Whose dead were respectfully exhumed from the local cemetery 422 00:22:02,521 --> 00:22:04,530 And reburied further down the valley. 423 00:22:04,607 --> 00:22:12,946 ♪ 424 00:22:12,957 --> 00:22:16,116 In the lower reaches of snowdonia national park, 425 00:22:16,127 --> 00:22:18,127 The market town of machynlleth 426 00:22:18,204 --> 00:22:20,954 Is regarded as the ancient capital of wales, 427 00:22:20,965 --> 00:22:23,466 Once the stronghold of a rebel leader 428 00:22:23,542 --> 00:22:27,303 Just as legendary to the welsh as the mythical king arthur. 429 00:22:28,547 --> 00:22:30,473 His name, owain glyndwr, 430 00:22:30,549 --> 00:22:33,809 The last welshman to hold the title prince of wales. 431 00:22:36,222 --> 00:22:39,556 Glyndwr's 15th-century revolt against english rule 432 00:22:39,567 --> 00:22:41,400 Was effectively a full-scale war 433 00:22:41,611 --> 00:22:43,644 Against the english king henry iv. 434 00:22:43,654 --> 00:22:47,323 ♪ 435 00:22:47,400 --> 00:22:49,316 This medieval building in the town 436 00:22:49,327 --> 00:22:51,327 Is the original site of a parliament 437 00:22:51,404 --> 00:22:53,487 Where glyndwr declared his vision 438 00:22:53,498 --> 00:22:55,414 Of an independent welsh state. 439 00:22:55,491 --> 00:22:59,502 ♪ 440 00:22:59,578 --> 00:23:01,754 Here, he was crowned prince of wales 441 00:23:01,831 --> 00:23:03,422 By his followers. 442 00:23:03,499 --> 00:23:07,093 ♪ 443 00:23:07,169 --> 00:23:09,503 When the rebellion ultimately foundered, 444 00:23:09,514 --> 00:23:12,515 Glyndwr went into hiding. 445 00:23:12,591 --> 00:23:15,601 Despite enormous rewards offered for his capture, 446 00:23:15,678 --> 00:23:17,228 He was never betrayed. 447 00:23:19,273 --> 00:23:22,015 He is said to have died in 1415, 448 00:23:22,026 --> 00:23:23,517 But glyndwr is still revered 449 00:23:23,528 --> 00:23:26,520 As one of wales's most heroic figures. 450 00:23:26,531 --> 00:23:33,610 ♪ 451 00:23:33,621 --> 00:23:37,030 In 1970, two young musicians came here 452 00:23:37,041 --> 00:23:39,950 To the 18th-century cottage of golden hill, 453 00:23:39,961 --> 00:23:41,618 Or bron yr aur. 454 00:23:41,629 --> 00:23:43,629 They weren't just visiting; 455 00:23:43,706 --> 00:23:46,623 They'd come to work on one of the most famous rock albums 456 00:23:46,634 --> 00:23:49,126 Of all time. 457 00:23:49,137 --> 00:23:50,627 At the time, 458 00:23:50,638 --> 00:23:53,639 This was the holiday home of the plant family. 459 00:23:53,716 --> 00:23:55,975 Robert plant and his bandmate jimmy page 460 00:23:56,051 --> 00:23:59,645 Had just completed a long north american tour. 461 00:23:59,722 --> 00:24:02,064 Here they would write and partly record 462 00:24:02,141 --> 00:24:04,057 "led zeppelin iii." 463 00:24:04,068 --> 00:24:06,485 The cottage, now in the hands of a new owner, 464 00:24:06,562 --> 00:24:08,228 And the landscape around it 465 00:24:08,239 --> 00:24:12,158 Would inspire songs such as "over the hills and far away" 466 00:24:12,234 --> 00:24:15,161 And of course, "bron-yr-aur." 467 00:24:15,237 --> 00:24:18,664 It remains a mecca for dedicated zeppelin fans. 468 00:24:18,741 --> 00:24:20,833 ♪ 469 00:24:20,910 --> 00:24:22,334 [gulls squawking] 470 00:24:22,411 --> 00:24:25,671 Every year, thousands of golfers make the pilgrimage 471 00:24:25,748 --> 00:24:27,089 To the first course 472 00:24:27,166 --> 00:24:29,833 Specifically designed to host the ryder cup. 473 00:24:29,844 --> 00:24:32,011 The tournament between the u.S. And europe 474 00:24:32,087 --> 00:24:33,921 Is held every two years. 475 00:24:33,931 --> 00:24:36,924 This course was built for the 2010 event, 476 00:24:36,934 --> 00:24:39,935 At a cost of over $20 million. 477 00:24:40,012 --> 00:24:42,596 Near the city of newport in south wales, 478 00:24:42,607 --> 00:24:45,265 It forms part of the celtic manor resort-- 479 00:24:45,276 --> 00:24:47,526 A golf, spa, and hotel complex 480 00:24:47,603 --> 00:24:50,613 Set in 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland. 481 00:24:53,367 --> 00:24:56,368 This 395-foot-long suspension bridge 482 00:24:56,445 --> 00:24:57,786 Across the river usk 483 00:24:57,863 --> 00:25:00,581 Was specially built for the ryder cup. 484 00:25:01,959 --> 00:25:05,044 Today, even amateur golfers can pit their skills 485 00:25:05,120 --> 00:25:07,546 Against the challenging fairways and greens 486 00:25:07,623 --> 00:25:09,131 Of the 2010 course. 487 00:25:09,208 --> 00:25:14,470 ♪ 488 00:25:17,391 --> 00:25:20,559 ♪ 489 00:25:20,636 --> 00:25:23,062 The otherworldly skyline of port talbot 490 00:25:23,138 --> 00:25:25,439 Could hardly offer a more striking contrast. 491 00:25:27,643 --> 00:25:28,642 It would inspire 492 00:25:28,653 --> 00:25:30,486 An american-born british director 493 00:25:30,563 --> 00:25:33,280 To create one of hollywood's strangest movies. 494 00:25:35,076 --> 00:25:37,067 The town on wales's south coast 495 00:25:37,078 --> 00:25:40,746 Is home to one of the largest steel foundries in the world, 496 00:25:40,823 --> 00:25:43,582 Employing one in ten of its population. 497 00:25:45,494 --> 00:25:47,670 Visiting port talbot at sunset, 498 00:25:47,746 --> 00:25:49,997 Director terry gilliam was overwhelmed 499 00:25:50,007 --> 00:25:53,842 By the sight of fumes and vapor rising from the cooling towers, 500 00:25:53,919 --> 00:25:57,170 Lit by plumes of ignited waste gas. 501 00:25:57,181 --> 00:25:59,423 It would profoundly influence his own vision 502 00:25:59,433 --> 00:26:02,017 For the dystopian sci-fi classic "brazil." 503 00:26:02,094 --> 00:26:05,604 ♪ 504 00:26:05,815 --> 00:26:07,898 And the movie connections don't end there. 505 00:26:11,353 --> 00:26:12,936 Port talbot is also the hometown 506 00:26:12,947 --> 00:26:15,939 Of two of wales's most iconic actors-- 507 00:26:15,950 --> 00:26:18,993 Sir anthony hopkins and sir richard burton. 508 00:26:22,448 --> 00:26:25,624 Born richard jenkins at this modest terraced house 509 00:26:25,701 --> 00:26:29,378 In the nearby village of pontrhydyfen in 1925, 510 00:26:29,455 --> 00:26:32,706 Burton was the twelfth of thirteen children. 511 00:26:32,717 --> 00:26:33,966 He lived here for two years 512 00:26:34,043 --> 00:26:35,959 Before the family moved to port talbot 513 00:26:35,970 --> 00:26:38,095 Following the death of his mother. 514 00:26:39,882 --> 00:26:42,382 Years later, when burton visited the village 515 00:26:42,393 --> 00:26:45,144 With his then-new wife elizabeth taylor, 516 00:26:45,220 --> 00:26:48,805 Locals remember the occasion as something akin to a royal visit. 517 00:26:48,816 --> 00:26:54,987 ♪ 518 00:26:55,064 --> 00:26:56,655 The sport of lawn bowls, 519 00:26:56,732 --> 00:26:58,657 Dating back to the 13th century, 520 00:26:58,868 --> 00:27:00,484 Has a rich history in wales, 521 00:27:00,494 --> 00:27:02,620 With hundreds of clubs across the country. 522 00:27:04,582 --> 00:27:08,667 Today the inco vale club, 10 miles from port talbot, 523 00:27:08,744 --> 00:27:11,920 Is hosting a mixed pairs competition. 524 00:27:11,997 --> 00:27:13,580 Club chairman wyndham haines 525 00:27:13,591 --> 00:27:16,300 Has played the sport for more than 50 years. 526 00:27:18,596 --> 00:27:21,588 The goal for teams is to position their set of bowls 527 00:27:21,599 --> 00:27:23,590 Closer than those of their opponents 528 00:27:23,601 --> 00:27:26,018 To a small white ball called the jack. 529 00:27:29,348 --> 00:27:31,264 One of the clubs most accomplished players, 530 00:27:31,275 --> 00:27:32,599 Gaynor thomas, 531 00:27:32,610 --> 00:27:34,610 Has won numerous titles over the years, 532 00:27:34,687 --> 00:27:37,521 Including the national mixed pairs champion. 533 00:27:37,531 --> 00:27:42,609 ♪ 534 00:27:42,620 --> 00:27:46,455 These manicured lawns are the picture of civility-- 535 00:27:46,532 --> 00:27:48,031 A far cry from the landscapes 536 00:27:48,042 --> 00:27:50,617 That greeted wales's first settlers. 537 00:27:50,628 --> 00:27:56,456 ♪ 538 00:27:56,467 --> 00:27:59,468 This evocative terrain of wild moors and grassland 539 00:27:59,545 --> 00:28:01,303 In northern pembrokeshire 540 00:28:01,380 --> 00:28:03,213 Is preseli hills, 541 00:28:03,224 --> 00:28:06,633 A national park crossed by an ancient 8-mile track 542 00:28:06,644 --> 00:28:08,268 Known as the golden road. 543 00:28:10,139 --> 00:28:11,471 Dotted throughout the area 544 00:28:11,482 --> 00:28:14,224 Are burial sites and ancient settlements 545 00:28:14,235 --> 00:28:15,984 Dating back to the stone age. 546 00:28:19,231 --> 00:28:20,897 For many years, it was said 547 00:28:20,908 --> 00:28:24,484 That bluestones quarried here 4,500 years ago 548 00:28:24,495 --> 00:28:26,453 Were used to build stonehenge. 549 00:28:28,991 --> 00:28:31,408 In 2000, to prove the claim, 550 00:28:31,419 --> 00:28:32,918 A local community group 551 00:28:32,995 --> 00:28:35,662 Attempted to move a three-ton rock to stonehenge 552 00:28:35,673 --> 00:28:37,131 By neolithic means. 553 00:28:39,418 --> 00:28:41,677 When the 140-mile attempt failed, 554 00:28:41,754 --> 00:28:44,504 The group blamed modern health and safety obstacles 555 00:28:44,515 --> 00:28:47,015 That would not have stopped the original engineers. 556 00:28:49,103 --> 00:28:52,604 As it turned out, they were right. 557 00:28:52,681 --> 00:28:56,850 In 2015, a team of geologists and archaeologists 558 00:28:56,861 --> 00:28:58,435 Confirmed that the great pillars 559 00:28:58,446 --> 00:29:00,446 Were indeed quarried here at preseli 560 00:29:00,522 --> 00:29:03,449 And transported east to stonehenge. 561 00:29:03,525 --> 00:29:08,945 ♪ 562 00:29:08,956 --> 00:29:10,622 In 1066, 563 00:29:10,699 --> 00:29:14,451 Around 4,000 years after that monumental achievement, 564 00:29:14,462 --> 00:29:16,462 William the conqueror invaded britain 565 00:29:16,538 --> 00:29:19,122 From what is now northern France. 566 00:29:19,133 --> 00:29:22,542 Within six years, he controlled all of England, 567 00:29:22,553 --> 00:29:24,553 But the fierce welsh tribes would resist 568 00:29:24,630 --> 00:29:27,047 For a further 200 years. 569 00:29:27,057 --> 00:29:28,965 At the end of the 13th century, 570 00:29:28,976 --> 00:29:31,560 William's descendent, edward I, 571 00:29:31,637 --> 00:29:34,313 Launched a full-scale war of conquest. 572 00:29:34,389 --> 00:29:35,814 His goal-- 573 00:29:36,025 --> 00:29:37,983 To place wales firmly under english control. 574 00:29:39,728 --> 00:29:41,236 Harlech castle, 575 00:29:41,313 --> 00:29:44,823 On a spur of rock near the irish sea in north wales, 576 00:29:45,034 --> 00:29:46,900 Is one of a ring of fortresses he built 577 00:29:46,911 --> 00:29:49,244 To stamp his authority on the land. 578 00:29:50,247 --> 00:29:52,155 In the centuries that followed, 579 00:29:52,166 --> 00:29:56,001 Harlech gained a reputation as a near impregnable stronghold. 580 00:29:57,746 --> 00:29:59,004 In the 15th century, 581 00:29:59,081 --> 00:30:00,672 When the houses of york and lancaster 582 00:30:00,749 --> 00:30:02,758 Battled for the throne of England, 583 00:30:02,835 --> 00:30:06,845 The castle resisted siege for seven years. 584 00:30:06,922 --> 00:30:10,015 In 1642, the fortress was besieged again 585 00:30:10,092 --> 00:30:12,008 During the english civil war 586 00:30:12,019 --> 00:30:14,686 When the forces of the king and the parliamentary government 587 00:30:14,763 --> 00:30:17,356 Struggled for control of britain. 588 00:30:17,432 --> 00:30:19,182 After holding out for five years, 589 00:30:19,193 --> 00:30:22,444 Harlech was the last royalist castle on the british mainland 590 00:30:22,521 --> 00:30:24,688 To surrender to the parliamentary forces. 591 00:30:24,698 --> 00:30:34,197 ♪ 592 00:30:34,208 --> 00:30:38,293 ♪ 593 00:30:38,370 --> 00:30:42,214 Unlike the other castles of edward I's iron ring, 594 00:30:42,291 --> 00:30:44,216 This one, caernarfon, 595 00:30:44,293 --> 00:30:46,051 Was less a defensive fortress 596 00:30:46,128 --> 00:30:48,679 And more an expression of english dominance. 597 00:30:50,808 --> 00:30:53,466 Modeled on the walls of constantinople, 598 00:30:53,477 --> 00:30:56,636 The castle has a series of polygonal towers. 599 00:30:56,647 --> 00:31:00,649 The ten-sided eagle tower was once decorated with stone eagles 600 00:31:00,726 --> 00:31:02,693 That have since weathered away. 601 00:31:05,230 --> 00:31:08,648 Its fearsome gatehouses are peppered with murder-holes, 602 00:31:08,659 --> 00:31:10,409 From where the castle's defenders 603 00:31:10,485 --> 00:31:11,827 Poured boiling oil and water 604 00:31:11,904 --> 00:31:14,580 Down on anyone foolhardy enough to attack. 605 00:31:16,125 --> 00:31:18,325 It was here, in 1284, 606 00:31:18,335 --> 00:31:22,245 That edward's queen eleanor gave birth to their first son, 607 00:31:22,256 --> 00:31:26,592 The very first welsh-born, but english, prince of wales. 608 00:31:26,668 --> 00:31:29,428 And it was here, in 1969, 609 00:31:29,504 --> 00:31:32,014 That the present prince of wales, prince charles, 610 00:31:32,090 --> 00:31:34,266 Was invested by his mother queen elizabeth. 611 00:31:34,343 --> 00:31:47,103 ♪ 612 00:31:47,114 --> 00:31:48,614 Northeast of caernarfon 613 00:31:48,690 --> 00:31:51,441 On a coastal ridge overlooking the river conwy 614 00:31:51,452 --> 00:31:53,952 Stands what is arguably the most magnificent 615 00:31:54,163 --> 00:31:56,455 Of edward I's welsh fortresses. 616 00:31:58,042 --> 00:32:01,701 Designed by the master architect james of st. George, 617 00:32:01,712 --> 00:32:03,962 Conwy is defended by eight towers 618 00:32:04,173 --> 00:32:05,964 And two fortified gateways... 619 00:32:08,135 --> 00:32:10,969 All of which counted for little in 1401 620 00:32:11,180 --> 00:32:13,213 When, during the last war of independence, 621 00:32:13,223 --> 00:32:16,049 Two welsh rebel brothers surprised the watchmen 622 00:32:16,060 --> 00:32:18,852 And seized control of the castle for three months. 623 00:32:20,222 --> 00:32:21,813 They eventually surrendered 624 00:32:21,890 --> 00:32:24,608 In exchange for a full pardon by the king. 625 00:32:28,480 --> 00:32:31,564 Near the castle, attached to conwy's town walls, 626 00:32:31,575 --> 00:32:33,200 Is britain's smallest house. 627 00:32:34,653 --> 00:32:36,995 It was inhabited from the 16th century 628 00:32:37,206 --> 00:32:38,997 Right up to 1900. 629 00:32:39,074 --> 00:32:42,250 Its last tenant was a 6-foot 3-inch fisherman. 630 00:32:44,254 --> 00:32:48,465 Visitors can view the property, but only at ground level. 631 00:32:49,918 --> 00:32:51,334 The upper floor is taken up 632 00:32:51,345 --> 00:32:54,012 By a single bed and a small cabinet. 633 00:32:55,090 --> 00:32:56,840 Downstairs there's just enough room 634 00:32:56,850 --> 00:32:59,592 For a stove and a seat...For one. 635 00:32:59,603 --> 00:33:09,102 ♪ 636 00:33:09,113 --> 00:33:11,029 On the north coast of wales, 637 00:33:11,106 --> 00:33:14,107 A narrow 16-mile-long stretch of tidal water 638 00:33:14,118 --> 00:33:15,617 Known as the menai strait 639 00:33:15,694 --> 00:33:18,778 Separates the mainland from its largest island, 640 00:33:18,789 --> 00:33:19,871 Anglesey. 641 00:33:21,616 --> 00:33:24,543 Covering an area of 276 square miles, 642 00:33:24,619 --> 00:33:27,871 The island is home to around 70,000 people, 643 00:33:27,881 --> 00:33:29,631 Most of whom are welsh speakers. 644 00:33:33,712 --> 00:33:35,962 This great span linking to the mainland 645 00:33:35,973 --> 00:33:40,633 Is the 1,400-foot-long menai suspension bridge. 646 00:33:40,644 --> 00:33:43,562 It was designed by master engineer thomas telford 647 00:33:43,638 --> 00:33:45,981 And completed in 1826, 648 00:33:46,058 --> 00:33:47,816 Replacing a hazardous ferry journey 649 00:33:47,893 --> 00:33:50,068 Across the treacherous, fast-flowing waters 650 00:33:50,279 --> 00:33:51,903 Of the strait. 651 00:33:54,575 --> 00:33:56,908 ♪ 652 00:33:56,985 --> 00:33:59,402 This ghostly collection of industrial buildings 653 00:33:59,413 --> 00:34:01,496 On anglesey's north coast 654 00:34:01,573 --> 00:34:04,458 Is the abandoned ruin of porth wen brickworks. 655 00:34:06,578 --> 00:34:08,495 Once a hive of activity, 656 00:34:08,505 --> 00:34:12,340 Now a monument to a long-dead industry. 657 00:34:12,417 --> 00:34:14,426 This was where the quartzite bricks 658 00:34:14,503 --> 00:34:17,179 That lined the furnaces of the victorian steel industry 659 00:34:17,255 --> 00:34:18,555 Were made. 660 00:34:19,674 --> 00:34:21,683 The quartzite was crushed by workers 661 00:34:21,760 --> 00:34:23,510 Wearing iron-covered gloves 662 00:34:23,520 --> 00:34:27,272 Before being hand-molded and fired in domed kilns. 663 00:34:30,319 --> 00:34:31,851 Finished bricks were dispatched 664 00:34:31,862 --> 00:34:33,770 To the forges of a new industrial age 665 00:34:33,781 --> 00:34:35,489 From this quay... 666 00:34:38,035 --> 00:34:42,120 Now crumbling into ruins like the rest of the site, 667 00:34:42,331 --> 00:34:44,614 Weathered by sea and salt for more than a century. 668 00:34:44,625 --> 00:34:52,956 ♪ 669 00:34:52,966 --> 00:34:57,636 Anglesey is just one of over 50 islands off the welsh coast. 670 00:34:57,712 --> 00:35:01,306 Many, like the tiny island of caldey in carmarthen bay, 671 00:35:01,383 --> 00:35:03,892 Were the site of early monastic settlements, 672 00:35:03,969 --> 00:35:06,469 Remote havens of contemplation and prayer, 673 00:35:06,480 --> 00:35:08,888 Safe from attack. 674 00:35:08,899 --> 00:35:12,150 Today, a small community of cistercian trappist monks, 675 00:35:12,227 --> 00:35:14,319 Based here since the 1920s, 676 00:35:14,396 --> 00:35:17,405 Continues that tradition. 677 00:35:17,482 --> 00:35:20,483 Although home to only around 40 permanent residents, 678 00:35:20,494 --> 00:35:22,902 The island issues its own stamps, 679 00:35:22,913 --> 00:35:25,497 And has its own currency known as the "dab." 680 00:35:26,917 --> 00:35:29,000 During the spring and summer months, 681 00:35:29,077 --> 00:35:31,911 The monks welcome visitors on spiritual retreat, 682 00:35:31,922 --> 00:35:33,004 As well as those who come 683 00:35:33,081 --> 00:35:35,415 To enjoy the island's rich wildlife. 684 00:35:35,425 --> 00:35:38,844 [birds calling] 685 00:35:38,920 --> 00:35:41,179 Caldey may be a place of the soul, 686 00:35:41,256 --> 00:35:44,516 But the heart of wales lies deep below the ground. 687 00:35:48,763 --> 00:35:50,597 A great treasure is buried 688 00:35:50,607 --> 00:35:53,349 Beneath the valleys of south wales. 689 00:35:53,360 --> 00:35:55,193 Hundreds of feet below the ground 690 00:35:55,404 --> 00:35:57,988 Lies one of britain's most extensive coalfields. 691 00:36:00,784 --> 00:36:02,534 During the industrial revolution, 692 00:36:02,611 --> 00:36:06,788 That same coal was a vital and precious commodity. 693 00:36:06,865 --> 00:36:08,623 By the early 20th century, 694 00:36:08,700 --> 00:36:10,700 Over a quarter of a million men 695 00:36:10,711 --> 00:36:13,453 Were working in wales's coal mines. 696 00:36:13,463 --> 00:36:17,382 This mine, called big pit at blaenavon in monmouthshire, 697 00:36:17,459 --> 00:36:19,009 Was one of the most productive. 698 00:36:20,971 --> 00:36:24,380 Coal mined here fueled the steel industry, 699 00:36:24,391 --> 00:36:25,557 Powered steamships, 700 00:36:25,634 --> 00:36:27,142 And fed the locomotive engines 701 00:36:27,219 --> 00:36:29,603 Of america's great western railway. 702 00:36:31,565 --> 00:36:36,234 Since 1983, big pit has been a world heritage site. 703 00:36:36,311 --> 00:36:39,479 Today, brave souls can descend 300 feet 704 00:36:39,489 --> 00:36:41,481 In the original pit cage 705 00:36:41,491 --> 00:36:44,576 To the dark coalface where miners once toiled. 706 00:36:48,323 --> 00:36:51,666 But there's a much darker side to wales's mining history. 707 00:36:51,743 --> 00:36:56,671 ♪ 708 00:36:56,748 --> 00:37:00,333 This is the peaceful former mining town of aberfan, 709 00:37:00,344 --> 00:37:02,594 In the taff valley. 710 00:37:02,671 --> 00:37:07,340 Here at 9:15 on the morning of October 21, 1966, 711 00:37:07,351 --> 00:37:09,092 As the children of a local junior school 712 00:37:09,102 --> 00:37:10,602 Gathered for lessons, 713 00:37:10,679 --> 00:37:12,929 The ground suddenly began to shake. 714 00:37:12,940 --> 00:37:15,941 [rumbling] 715 00:37:16,017 --> 00:37:18,685 Over many years, huge piles of mining debris 716 00:37:18,695 --> 00:37:20,520 Had been deposited on the hillside 717 00:37:20,530 --> 00:37:22,280 Above the village. 718 00:37:22,357 --> 00:37:23,690 Loosened by heavy rain, 719 00:37:23,700 --> 00:37:26,034 The great mass of coal, shale, and water 720 00:37:26,111 --> 00:37:27,944 Began to slide downhill, 721 00:37:27,955 --> 00:37:29,955 Consuming everything in its path, 722 00:37:30,031 --> 00:37:31,998 Including the school. 723 00:37:37,622 --> 00:37:38,964 Despite the desperate efforts 724 00:37:39,040 --> 00:37:41,541 Of thousands of volunteers and mine workers, 725 00:37:41,551 --> 00:37:46,212 116 children and 28 adults were killed. 726 00:37:49,050 --> 00:37:52,644 Today the victims are remembered at a memorial garden 727 00:37:52,721 --> 00:37:54,637 At the cemetery where many of them are buried. 728 00:37:54,648 --> 00:38:01,569 ♪ 729 00:38:04,074 --> 00:38:05,991 ♪ 730 00:38:06,067 --> 00:38:08,901 With a population of nearly quarter of a million, 731 00:38:08,912 --> 00:38:11,162 Swansea is wales's second city. 732 00:38:13,241 --> 00:38:16,159 A major industrial center in the 19th century, 733 00:38:16,169 --> 00:38:18,503 Its forges smelted so much copper, 734 00:38:18,580 --> 00:38:21,006 The town became known as "copperopolis." 735 00:38:22,509 --> 00:38:24,676 It's hard to believe that less than 80 years ago, 736 00:38:24,753 --> 00:38:27,095 Much of this city lay in ruins. 737 00:38:28,506 --> 00:38:31,516 Over the course of three nights in 1941, 738 00:38:31,593 --> 00:38:35,261 German long-range bombers wiped out entire streets, 739 00:38:35,272 --> 00:38:38,315 Turning the city center into a blazing inferno. 740 00:38:40,268 --> 00:38:42,935 Rebuilt and expanded in the years that followed, 741 00:38:42,946 --> 00:38:44,520 Today the town's centerpiece 742 00:38:44,531 --> 00:38:47,449 Is the residential tower of meridian quay, 743 00:38:47,525 --> 00:38:49,326 Wales's tallest building. 744 00:38:52,030 --> 00:38:53,455 Down on the beach, 745 00:38:53,531 --> 00:38:57,542 The uk's largest beach yoga class is underway, 746 00:38:57,619 --> 00:38:59,419 Led by annapurna helen wilson. 747 00:39:01,131 --> 00:39:03,706 These weekly summer sessions are open to all 748 00:39:03,717 --> 00:39:05,550 And attract dozens of locals, 749 00:39:05,627 --> 00:39:07,385 Calming bodies and minds 750 00:39:07,462 --> 00:39:10,889 As they breathe the sea air flowing in from swansea bay. 751 00:39:10,965 --> 00:39:16,552 ♪ 752 00:39:16,563 --> 00:39:19,481 Of course, yoga is not for everyone. 753 00:39:19,557 --> 00:39:23,234 ♪ 754 00:39:23,311 --> 00:39:27,072 Mountain biker simon wilson gets all the fresh air he needs 755 00:39:27,148 --> 00:39:30,408 Speeding along sections of the wales coast path. 756 00:39:31,620 --> 00:39:33,495 Opened in 2012, 757 00:39:33,571 --> 00:39:35,655 It was the first of its kind in the world. 758 00:39:35,665 --> 00:39:38,249 Following the entire welsh coastline, 759 00:39:38,326 --> 00:39:42,495 It extends over 880 miles through breath-taking scenery, 760 00:39:42,506 --> 00:39:45,256 Skirting a series of hair-raising sheer drops. 761 00:39:45,333 --> 00:39:49,669 ♪ 762 00:39:49,679 --> 00:39:51,671 The fossil-rich limestone cliffs 763 00:39:51,681 --> 00:39:54,257 Of nash point in the vale of glamorgan 764 00:39:54,267 --> 00:39:57,018 Mark a spectacular end to simon's journey... 765 00:39:59,013 --> 00:40:00,680 A chance to catch his breath 766 00:40:00,690 --> 00:40:02,849 And take in the stunning view. 767 00:40:02,859 --> 00:40:11,774 ♪ 768 00:40:11,785 --> 00:40:13,785 About 60 miles inland, 769 00:40:13,862 --> 00:40:16,287 Hidden in the quiet welsh countryside, 770 00:40:16,364 --> 00:40:18,039 A collection of old farm buildings 771 00:40:18,116 --> 00:40:20,458 Give little hint of their pivotal role 772 00:40:20,669 --> 00:40:23,369 In the history of rock music. 773 00:40:23,380 --> 00:40:25,621 This is rockfield studios, 774 00:40:25,632 --> 00:40:28,624 The world's first residential recording facility. 775 00:40:28,635 --> 00:40:30,126 For years, 776 00:40:30,137 --> 00:40:31,803 Artists from motorhead to the pixies and coldplay 777 00:40:31,880 --> 00:40:35,882 Have come here to live, write, and record. 778 00:40:35,892 --> 00:40:37,892 The facility has two studios-- 779 00:40:37,969 --> 00:40:39,394 The coach house, 780 00:40:39,471 --> 00:40:42,480 Where in 1996 oasis recorded their iconic album 781 00:40:42,557 --> 00:40:45,725 "what's the story, morning glory?" 782 00:40:45,735 --> 00:40:47,402 And the quadrangle studio, 783 00:40:47,479 --> 00:40:49,070 Where, in 1975, 784 00:40:49,147 --> 00:40:51,564 Queen recorded one of the greatest rock anthems 785 00:40:51,575 --> 00:40:52,907 Of all time, 786 00:40:52,984 --> 00:40:54,742 "bohemian rhapsody." 787 00:40:57,330 --> 00:40:59,572 If the legendary musicians who came here 788 00:40:59,583 --> 00:41:02,333 Ever tired of rockfield's peaceful charms, 789 00:41:02,410 --> 00:41:04,586 They had only to venture 10 miles west 790 00:41:04,662 --> 00:41:06,754 To find inspiration. 791 00:41:13,180 --> 00:41:16,014 The extraordinary landscape of the brecon beacons 792 00:41:16,090 --> 00:41:18,683 Has inspired many things over the years, 793 00:41:18,760 --> 00:41:20,343 Not least the misty mountains 794 00:41:20,353 --> 00:41:23,855 Of j.R.R. Tolkien's "the lord of the rings." 795 00:41:25,859 --> 00:41:29,444 Extending east to west over 500 square miles, 796 00:41:29,521 --> 00:41:32,021 The region includes several mountain ranges, 797 00:41:32,032 --> 00:41:35,358 But is known by the chain of six peaks at its center, 798 00:41:35,368 --> 00:41:38,495 Dominated by the brooding silhouette of pen-y-fan. 799 00:41:40,040 --> 00:41:42,540 The beacons were named after the ancient practice 800 00:41:42,617 --> 00:41:45,201 Of lighting signal fires on the mountaintops 801 00:41:45,212 --> 00:41:47,036 To warn of invasion, 802 00:41:47,047 --> 00:41:48,546 And their role in defense of the realm 803 00:41:48,623 --> 00:41:50,882 Continues to this day. 804 00:41:53,637 --> 00:41:54,969 For more than a century, 805 00:41:55,046 --> 00:41:57,055 These remote and exposed uplands 806 00:41:57,131 --> 00:42:00,558 Have been a training ground for british special forces. 807 00:42:00,769 --> 00:42:07,398 ♪ 808 00:42:07,475 --> 00:42:10,735 This is the fishing village of laugharne in carmarthenshire, 809 00:42:10,812 --> 00:42:12,904 West of the brecon beacons. 810 00:42:12,981 --> 00:42:16,574 Once home to wales's greatest poet, dylan thomas, 811 00:42:16,651 --> 00:42:20,537 Author of "do not go gentle into that good night." 812 00:42:22,490 --> 00:42:24,156 Born in swansea, 813 00:42:24,167 --> 00:42:25,583 Thomas first came to fame 814 00:42:25,794 --> 00:42:28,670 With the publication in 1934 of the poem 815 00:42:28,746 --> 00:42:31,881 "light breaks where no sun shines." 816 00:42:33,418 --> 00:42:35,677 He spent most of his life in laugharne 817 00:42:35,753 --> 00:42:37,753 And his last four years at this boathouse 818 00:42:37,764 --> 00:42:39,672 Overlooking the taf estuary, 819 00:42:39,683 --> 00:42:42,934 Struggling with the alcoholism that would destroy his health. 820 00:42:44,846 --> 00:42:47,263 Here he wrote his famous radio play 821 00:42:47,274 --> 00:42:48,931 "under milk wood," 822 00:42:48,942 --> 00:42:50,766 Whose fictional town of llareggub 823 00:42:50,777 --> 00:42:53,695 Was based on laugharne. 824 00:42:53,771 --> 00:42:58,357 After thomas died at new york's historic chelsea hotel in 1953 825 00:42:58,368 --> 00:43:00,526 At the age of 39, 826 00:43:00,537 --> 00:43:03,454 His remains were brought home to his beloved laugharne. 827 00:43:03,531 --> 00:43:09,794 ♪ 828 00:43:09,871 --> 00:43:12,880 Another of wales's great literary heroes 829 00:43:12,957 --> 00:43:16,551 Was the renowned children's writer roald dahl. 830 00:43:16,628 --> 00:43:18,970 The author of "james and the giant peach," 831 00:43:19,047 --> 00:43:20,305 "matilda" 832 00:43:20,381 --> 00:43:22,056 And "charlie and the chocolate factory" 833 00:43:22,133 --> 00:43:23,641 Was born at this house 834 00:43:23,852 --> 00:43:27,803 In the north cardiff suburb of llandaff in 1916. 835 00:43:27,814 --> 00:43:29,897 His parents were among the immigrants from norway 836 00:43:29,974 --> 00:43:33,067 Who settled in cardiff during the 19th century, 837 00:43:33,144 --> 00:43:35,903 And dahl's first language was norwegian. 838 00:43:37,315 --> 00:43:41,993 Growing up in llandaff greatly influenced dahl. 839 00:43:42,070 --> 00:43:44,662 As a student at the town's cathedral school, 840 00:43:44,739 --> 00:43:46,581 He and four classmates were punished 841 00:43:46,658 --> 00:43:49,241 For placing a dead mouse in a jar of gobstoppers 842 00:43:49,252 --> 00:43:51,252 To torment the local sweet shop owner, 843 00:43:51,329 --> 00:43:52,545 Mrs. Pratchett. 844 00:43:54,248 --> 00:43:55,923 With typical literary flair, 845 00:43:56,000 --> 00:43:59,844 Dahl called it "the great mouse plot of 1924." 846 00:43:59,921 --> 00:44:03,014 ♪ 847 00:44:03,091 --> 00:44:06,684 In 2017, cardiff held a three-day festival 848 00:44:06,761 --> 00:44:08,936 Called "city of the unexpected," 849 00:44:09,013 --> 00:44:11,597 Celebrating the centenary of the author's birth. 850 00:44:11,608 --> 00:44:15,526 ♪ 851 00:44:16,771 --> 00:44:19,447 ♪ 852 00:44:19,524 --> 00:44:21,607 A few miles north of cardiff, 853 00:44:21,618 --> 00:44:24,619 A castle that would grace any children's story 854 00:44:24,696 --> 00:44:28,206 Towers above the village of tongwynlais. 855 00:44:28,282 --> 00:44:30,458 This is red castle, 856 00:44:30,535 --> 00:44:32,201 Or as it's known in welsh, 857 00:44:32,212 --> 00:44:34,629 Castell coch. 858 00:44:34,706 --> 00:44:36,714 It was built for the owner of cardiff castle, 859 00:44:36,925 --> 00:44:37,799 William crichton-stuart, 860 00:44:37,875 --> 00:44:39,550 As a rural retreat, 861 00:44:39,627 --> 00:44:42,128 But he rarely used it. 862 00:44:42,138 --> 00:44:45,473 Although he died before its completion in 1891, 863 00:44:45,550 --> 00:44:47,633 The eccentric architect james burges 864 00:44:47,644 --> 00:44:50,561 Recreated an authentic medieval fortress 865 00:44:50,638 --> 00:44:52,730 With three dramatic stone towers 866 00:44:52,941 --> 00:44:55,808 And a formidable gatehouse complete with drawbridge. 867 00:44:55,819 --> 00:44:58,069 ♪ 868 00:44:58,146 --> 00:45:01,656 English architectural historian joseph mordaunt crook 869 00:45:01,733 --> 00:45:03,566 Described it as 870 00:45:03,576 --> 00:45:06,318 "the learned dream world of a great patron 871 00:45:06,329 --> 00:45:08,579 And his favorite architect... 872 00:45:08,656 --> 00:45:10,164 A fairy-tale castle 873 00:45:10,241 --> 00:45:12,333 Which seems almost to have materialized 874 00:45:12,410 --> 00:45:15,086 From the margins of a medieval manuscript." 875 00:45:15,163 --> 00:45:19,924 ♪ 876 00:45:20,001 --> 00:45:22,918 Cardiff may be wales's first city, 877 00:45:22,929 --> 00:45:25,763 But the mainly welsh-speaking town of aberystwyth 878 00:45:25,974 --> 00:45:28,841 Is regarded as its cultural capital. 879 00:45:28,852 --> 00:45:31,594 This isolated town on the country's west coast 880 00:45:31,604 --> 00:45:34,597 Became a popular victorian seaside resort 881 00:45:34,607 --> 00:45:37,525 After it was connected to the rest of the country by rail 882 00:45:37,602 --> 00:45:40,027 In the 19th century. 883 00:45:40,104 --> 00:45:41,437 The tourism boom 884 00:45:41,448 --> 00:45:44,365 Saw the building of fine hotels and guesthouses, 885 00:45:44,442 --> 00:45:46,451 As well as the elegant seafront homes 886 00:45:46,527 --> 00:45:50,246 That remain one of aberystwyth's most distinctive features. 887 00:45:51,866 --> 00:45:54,792 The town's mile-long promenade stretches from the harbor 888 00:45:54,869 --> 00:45:57,536 To the headland of constitution hill, 889 00:45:57,547 --> 00:46:00,214 Where a cable-drawn railway ascends to the summit. 890 00:46:03,636 --> 00:46:07,221 A victorian theme park was built here in 1896, 891 00:46:07,298 --> 00:46:08,464 With arcades, 892 00:46:08,475 --> 00:46:10,224 A restaurant at the foot of the hill, 893 00:46:10,301 --> 00:46:11,976 And a park at the top. 894 00:46:14,731 --> 00:46:17,815 The railway was originally powered by water weights, 895 00:46:17,892 --> 00:46:21,569 Then electrified in 1921. 896 00:46:21,646 --> 00:46:23,145 The tilted carriages 897 00:46:23,156 --> 00:46:25,573 Are designed to keep passengers in an upright position 898 00:46:25,650 --> 00:46:27,909 As they make the 45-degree climb. 899 00:46:29,821 --> 00:46:32,663 Aberystwyth came to even further prominence 900 00:46:32,740 --> 00:46:36,408 When wales's first university was established here. 901 00:46:36,419 --> 00:46:40,913 This building welcomed its first 26 students in 1872, 902 00:46:40,924 --> 00:46:44,166 And soon became known as "the people's university." 903 00:46:44,177 --> 00:46:52,508 ♪ 904 00:46:52,519 --> 00:46:54,352 On the far side of the country, 905 00:46:54,428 --> 00:46:56,762 Near the southeastern border with England, 906 00:46:56,773 --> 00:46:58,681 Lie the ruins of an earlier center 907 00:46:58,691 --> 00:47:00,191 Of culture and learning. 908 00:47:02,278 --> 00:47:05,104 Tintern abbey was founded in 1131 909 00:47:05,114 --> 00:47:06,531 On the banks of the river wye 910 00:47:06,607 --> 00:47:10,109 By monks of the cistercian order. 911 00:47:10,119 --> 00:47:12,361 Over 400 years later, 912 00:47:12,372 --> 00:47:15,364 When henry viii broke with the roman catholic church 913 00:47:15,375 --> 00:47:17,625 And ordered the dissolution of the monasteries, 914 00:47:17,702 --> 00:47:20,837 Tintern slowly fell into a state of decay. 915 00:47:23,457 --> 00:47:26,926 What remains is still an awe-inspiring sight... 916 00:47:28,638 --> 00:47:30,546 The decorated gothic architecture 917 00:47:30,557 --> 00:47:32,047 Of its great church 918 00:47:32,058 --> 00:47:35,393 Elegantly expressed in its elaborate arched windows. 919 00:47:38,064 --> 00:47:39,805 This abbey was painted 920 00:47:39,816 --> 00:47:43,568 By the great english masters gainsborough and turner, 921 00:47:43,644 --> 00:47:45,978 And would also fire the imagination of poets 922 00:47:45,989 --> 00:47:48,564 From wordsworth to tennyson. 923 00:47:48,575 --> 00:47:50,741 As the 19th-century scottish writer 924 00:47:50,818 --> 00:47:53,569 Catherine sinclair once wrote, 925 00:47:53,580 --> 00:47:57,656 "descriptions of tintern abbey should be written on ivy leaves, 926 00:47:57,667 --> 00:47:59,917 And with a poet's pen, 927 00:47:59,994 --> 00:48:03,254 For no other do justice to the air of solemn grandeur 928 00:48:03,331 --> 00:48:04,663 And religious melancholy 929 00:48:04,674 --> 00:48:07,008 Reigning within its delicate cloisters." 930 00:48:07,084 --> 00:48:18,769 ♪ 931 00:48:19,513 --> 00:48:25,443 ♪ 932 00:48:25,519 --> 00:48:27,519 In the far northeast of wales 933 00:48:27,530 --> 00:48:30,865 Stands a very different cathedral of stone, 934 00:48:30,942 --> 00:48:32,950 Attracting climbers keen to pit their skills 935 00:48:33,161 --> 00:48:35,453 Against its angular rock faces. 936 00:48:35,529 --> 00:48:43,711 ♪ 937 00:48:43,788 --> 00:48:48,123 In 1995, mark reeves came to this area to study, 938 00:48:48,134 --> 00:48:49,550 And never left. 939 00:48:50,628 --> 00:48:52,637 He has since established himself 940 00:48:52,713 --> 00:48:55,514 As a climbing coach and mountaineering instructor. 941 00:48:57,218 --> 00:48:58,550 When he's not scaling 942 00:48:58,561 --> 00:49:01,312 Dinorwic quarry's dramatic slate cliffs, 943 00:49:01,389 --> 00:49:04,723 He writes rock climbing guides to north wales and beyond. 944 00:49:04,734 --> 00:49:11,489 ♪ 945 00:49:11,565 --> 00:49:12,907 Slate from these quarries 946 00:49:12,984 --> 00:49:15,701 Once roofed the houses of the world. 947 00:49:17,497 --> 00:49:19,664 During the late 19th century, 948 00:49:19,740 --> 00:49:22,667 A workforce of over 3,000 labored here-- 949 00:49:22,743 --> 00:49:24,585 Gangs of men blasting the rock, 950 00:49:24,662 --> 00:49:27,004 Before splitting it with hammer and chisel. 951 00:49:28,591 --> 00:49:30,424 It was dangerous work-- 952 00:49:30,501 --> 00:49:33,585 Even more deadly than mining. 953 00:49:33,596 --> 00:49:35,337 Those lucky enough not to be killed 954 00:49:35,348 --> 00:49:38,182 Often had their lungs destroyed by slate dust. 955 00:49:40,678 --> 00:49:43,020 The tram lines used to transport the slate 956 00:49:43,231 --> 00:49:45,690 Still run like veins through the rock. 957 00:49:48,436 --> 00:49:51,520 The mine closed in 1969, 958 00:49:51,531 --> 00:49:54,106 Leaving a landscape that bears the legacy 959 00:49:54,117 --> 00:49:56,367 Of its industrial past with pride. 960 00:49:58,446 --> 00:50:04,291 The bedrock of a nation defined by the character of its people. 961 00:50:04,368 --> 00:50:08,796 Timeless, monumental, indomitable. 962 00:50:08,873 --> 00:50:10,789 Wales. 963 00:50:10,800 --> 00:50:14,969 ♪ 964 00:50:15,046 --> 00:50:24,970 ♪ 965 00:50:24,981 --> 00:50:39,326 ♪ 966 00:50:39,403 --> 00:50:50,921 ♪ 967 00:50:50,998 --> 00:50:59,430 ♪