Cardiff, or Caerdydd in Welsh, is the capital and largest city of Wales and an important political, cultural and economic centre. The city developed significantly during the nineteenth century as the principal port for exporting coal from the South Wales coalfields. This industrial prosperity transformed Cardiff into a major urban centre and left an important architectural and maritime legacy. Today the city is home to the Welsh Government, major universities, national cultural institutions and a thriving creative economy.
Cardiff: Historical sights and information
Facts about Cardiff
- Latitude:
- 51.480690
- Longitude:
- -3.176856
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°29' N, 03°11' W
The historical and tourist significance of the city
Cardiff Castle is one of the city's most important landmarks and combines Roman, medieval and Victorian history within a single site. The National Museum Cardiff, Principality Stadium and historic arcades are major attractions in the city centre. Cardiff Bay has been extensively regenerated and is now home to the Wales Millennium Centre, the Senedd and numerous restaurants and public spaces. Visitors can also explore Bute Park, one of the city's largest green spaces, while nearby Castell Coch provides a spectacular Victorian Gothic excursion just outside the centre.
Food, shopping and leisure
Cardiff has one of Wales's most diverse food scenes, with traditional Welsh dishes, international restaurants, cafés, pubs and modern dining venues. The city's Victorian and Edwardian arcades contain independent shops and cafés, while the central shopping districts offer a much wider range of retailers. Cardiff is particularly lively during sporting events, concerts and cultural festivals. Late spring and summer are excellent for exploring Cardiff Bay and its parks, although the city's museums, theatres and indoor attractions make it a year-round destination.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Cardiff.