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In a town blessed with a wealth of historic houses, Plas Mawr reigns supreme. Conwy, enclosed within a ring of 12th-century walls and protected by its mighty castle, is one of the world's finest medieval towns. In the narrow streets at its heart stands Plas Mawr, the 'Great Hall', built between 1576 and 1585 for the influential Welsh merchant, Robert Wynn. The tall, lime-rendered walls reflect the status of its builder as does its richly decorated interior. But do not let this rugged exterior deceive you, for within it is rich in ornamentation. Plas Mawr is an architectural gem, the finest surviving town house of the Elizabethan era to be found anywhere in Britain. It stands as a symbol of a prosperous, buoyant age, epitomized by the style and taste of Robert Wynn, a remarkable and well-traveled courtier and trader who rose to pre-eminence amongst the Welsh gentry.
Opening Hours: The monument will be closed on Mondays (except on Bank Holiday
weekends) between 1 April and 31 October. Back to the top. |
Plas
Mawr: Elizabethan Town House
Wynn's
'worthy plentiful house' is especially noted for the quality and
quantity of its ornamental plasterwork, now fully restored to its
original splendor (look out for the many initials 'R.W.' in its
crests and coats of arms). Particularly exquisite is the plaster
overmantel in the hall, repainted in its vivid original colours,
which immediately proclaimed Wynn's wealth and status. Other riches
in this noble dwelling include the glorious decorated plasterwork
ceilings and friezes and skilful carpentry. Plas Mawr's authentic
period atmosphere is further enhanced by furnishings (many original
to the house) based on an inventory of the contents in 1665. Visitors
can take an audio-tour of the house which describes the restoration
and the life of the Tudor gentry (not just Wynn's generous entertaining
and feasting, but also the work of the servants which underpinned
such a lavish lifestyle).
Admission
Charge: