Press Releases

Arthur returns to Caerleon

Arthur: The Legendary King that defended Britain in its hour of need is ready to do so again

Whether he was a real 6th Century warlord or a product of a medieval author’s mind, Arthur will take centre stage at Caerleon’s Roman amphitheatre on 3 and 4 July 2010, as part of the National Roman Legion Museum’s annual summer event.

Arthur, who it is said will return to save Wales at the moment of her greatest need, will be the focal point of Arthur: Caerleon to Camelot - a two day event (11am – 5pm) suitable for the whole family.

Although no physical evidence of Arthur has been found, he has captured the imagination of the nation for over 1,000 years and will do so again in July. Bring your family and friends to the unique setting – the most complete Roman amphitheatre in the UK - and watch Britannia, the Arthurian Society bring the King’s tale to life.

“In many respects Caerleon is the true home of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table,” said Mark Lewis, Curator, National Roman Legion Museum.

“Several authors have written about King Arthur, his noble knights, damsels in distress and magical quests, however his fame actually begins in Geoffrey of Monmouth’s book ‘History of the Kings of Britain’ dating back to around 1135.”

In his book, Geoffrey says that Arthur held court, was crowned at Caerleon and talks of him and Guinevere, who eventually became a nun at Caerleon.

Dai Price, Museum Manager added:

“Arthur: Caerleon to Camelot is a new take on our annual Military Spectacular. We wanted to offer our loyal visitors something fresh as well as introducing new visitors to the magic of Caerleon.

“Being the subject of the BBC series - Merlin and a popular figure amongst locals who’s believed to hold the key to further promoting the area, we are looking forward to exploring the links between Arthur and Caerleon.”

For £4.50 for adults, £2.50 for concessions and £12 for a family (2 adults and 3 children) there will also be an opportunity to listen to Dr Juliette Wood talk on 'The Truth About King Arthur'. Take a tour of Roman Caerleon with an Archaeologist, shop at the craft stalls and let the children march in the Amphitheatre! To book your tickets or for further information please call (01633) 423134.

The National Roman Legion Museum will also host a temporary exhibition and video installation exploring the legend from 28 June 2010 Arthur – Once and Future King.

Entry to the exhibition and the Museum is free, thanks to the support of the Welsh Assembly Government.

Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales operates seven museums across Wales National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans: National History Museum, National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon, Big Pit: National Coal Museum, Blaenafon, National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre, National Slate Museum, Llanberis and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

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For more information and photographs please contact Catrin Mears on 029 2057 3185/07920 027067 or email: catrin.mears@museumwales.ac.uk.