Explore Wales’ hidden heritage - for free

WALES is set for its biggest-ever free celebration of architecture and cultural heritage this September. A record number of historic sites, either usually closed to the public or which normally charge for admission, will open their doors for free Open Doors - European Heritage Days.

Cadw, the Welsh Assembly Government’s historic environment service will open monuments around Wales and invites the general public to explore Hafoty Medieval Hall House, Llansadwrn and Barclodiad y Gawres burial chamber on Anglesey and Porth Mawr, Caernarfon.

Co-ordinated by the Civic Trust for Wales with the support of Cadw as part of European Heritage Days, the Open Doors in September is an annual celebration of history, architecture and culture. As part of the celebrations a number of buildings across Wales of every age, style, period and function from castles to factories, and town halls to tithe barns and parish churches are open free of charge to the public.

Hafoty
Hafoty at Llansadwrn is open from 12-4pm on August 16, 23, 30 and every weekend of September (5 - 6, 12 - 13, 19 - 20) from 12pm to 4pm. A guide will be available on these days to answer questions and conduct tours on request.

A fine medieval house which was originally a timber-framed building, Hafoty was later encased in stone. It was probably built by the Norres family before passing to the Bulkeleys in 1511.

Barclodiad y Gawres
The Neolithic burial chamber Barclodiad y Gawres, located northwest of Aberffraw on the Anglesey coastal path, is an example of a cruciform passage grave, famous for its decorated stones. The outstanding monument, which recently featured in the groundbreaking Songs from Stones animated film project (visit the Songs from Stones website for more details) will be open to visitors for internal viewing every weekend until the end of October. The monument can be viewed externally throughout the year between 10am and 4pm. Visitors can take guided tours of the site on Saturday, September 5 (between 10.30am and 1.30pm) and on Sunday 6 September (between 12pm and 4pm).

Porth Mawr
Also known as the East or Exchequer Gate, the twin-towered Porth Mawr, Caernarfon was the principal landward entrance into medieval Caernarfon. Conservation work on the gatehouse is under way and has long been closed to the public, but Open Days provides a rare opportunity to have a look inside. Porth Mawr will be open from 10am to 4pm on September 12 & 13.

For the full list of participating sites (with opening dates and times) and updates on the Open Doors 2009 programme, go to the Civic Trust for Wales website at http://www.civictrustwales.org/