Meet the Legends Who Shaped History
Welcome to a world of intrigue, power, and legacy. From fearless warrior kings to mysterious medieval mystics, our Historical Figures section brings to life the people who shaped the course of history across England, Wales, and beyond.
Each story is carefully researched and rich in detail, offering you more than just names and dates — we explore the real lives, ambitions, triumphs and tragedies of the people behind the crown, the sword, and the legend.
Whether you’re fascinated by the rise of Richard the Lionheart, the enigma of Eleanor of Aquitaine, or the shadowy secrets of the Knights Templar, this is your gateway to understanding the human stories at the heart of the medieval world.
What You’ll Discover:
- Kings and Queens: Power struggles, royal scandals, and dynasties that forged kingdoms.
- Warriors and Rebels: From battlefield heroes to outlaws who challenged authority.
- Visionaries and Villains: Religious leaders, mystics, and those who changed history — for better or worse.
- Templars and Crusaders: Read into the lives of real knights and those who shaped the Crusades.
Why Explore Historical Figures?
History isn’t just about places — it’s about people. At Histories and Castles, we believe the past comes alive when we follow in the footsteps of those who lived it. Their decisions still echo in the ruins of castles and the myths we tell today.
Join us as we explore tales of ambition, betrayal, courage, and consequence — stories that continue to inspire, shock, and resonate centuries later.
Ready to read on?
Browse our collection below and rediscover the faces behind the history books.
The medieval period in England and Wales, spanning roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century, was a time of profound transformation. This era witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, the establishment of the feudal system, and significant cultural and political changes. Central to these developments were several notable historical figures whose legacies have endured through the centuries. This section explores some of the most influential medieval personalities from England and Wales.
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Eleanor of Aquitaine
Eleanor of Aquitaine (1122-1204) was perhaps the most powerful woman in 12th century Europe, inheriting vast swathes of land and wealth as Duchess of Aquitaine… …read on
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Empress Matilda
Empress Matilda was the daughter of King Henry I and challenger to Stephen for the throne of England in 12th century. …read on
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Geoffrey of Monmouth: A Historical and Literary Figure
Geoffrey of Monmouth, an influential cleric and chronicler of the 12th century, significantly shaped the medieval understanding of British history and legend. …read on
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King Edward I
King Edward I of England, known for his fierce determination to bring Wales under English rule. …read on
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King Edward III
Understanding King Edward III is essential for a comprehensive grasp of medieval England and its impact on modern Britain. …read on
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King Henry II
The life and times of King Henry II, a king whose legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of England’s history. …read on
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King Henry III
King Henry III of England ruled from 1216 to 1272, a period when the independent Welsh principalities remained largely outside of direct English control. …read on
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King Henry VII
When Henry Tudor defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, he became King Henry VII and established the Tudor dynasty. …read on
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King Richard I: The Lionheart’s Crusades, Castles & Legacy
King Richard I sought to expand English control over Wales throughout his reign from 1189 to 1199. …read on
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King Vortigern: The British Ruler Who Lost England
King Vortigern was a British ruler in 5th century England during time of Anglo-Saxon invasions …read on
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Llywelyn ab Iorwerth
Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, also known as Llywelyn the Great, became the Prince of Gwynedd in north Wales in 1194. …read on
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Llywelyn ap Gruffudd
Llywelyn ap Gruffudd was the last major ruler representing an independent Wales before the country’s conquest by England in the 13th century. …read on
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Llywelyn the Great: The Welsh Prince Who United a Nation
This article explore Llywelyn ap Iorwerth, known as Llywelyn the Great, one of the most influential figures in Welsh history. …read on
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Magnus Maximus
In 383 AD, a Roman general named Magnus Maximus seized power in Britain and ruled as a breakaway emperor for 5 years. …read on
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Owain Glyndwr
Owain Glyndwr led the last major armed rebellion against English power in Wales and came close to liberating the nation for several years. …read on
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Owain Gwynedd
Owain Gwynedd’s rise to power, his military conquests and territorial gains, his volatile relationship with Henry II, and his enduring legacy as a ruler. …read on
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Rhodri Mawr (Rhodri the Great)
Rhodri the Great (c. 820 – 878 AD) was one of the most prominent and influential rulers in early medieval Wales. …read on
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Rhys ap Gruffudd
Rhys ap Gruffudd, also known as The Lord Rhys, rose to power during a pivotal time in Welsh history. …read on
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Stephen of Blois
The turmoil of Stephen’s contested reign demonstrated the strife that battles over succession in the Middle Ages could unleash when there was no undisputed and… …read on
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William the Conqueror
The First Norman King of England William the Conqueror, also known as William I, stands as one of the most pivotal figures in British history.… …read on
