Discount Hotels Swansea
Historical interest: Swansea
    
The name 'Swansea' ('Abertawe' in Welsh) is believed to derive from 'Sweyn's
Ey' meaning 'inlet', a reference to a 10th century Viking ruler, who is said
to have settled here to make use of Swansea's broad sandy bay for maritime purposes.
The Normans later developed the town, building a castle and bringing growth
and prosperity to the settlers due to the thriving harbour. The ship building
industry was established in Swansea in the 13th century and during the next
400 years, the port flourished to be one of the most powerful in the world,
exporting up to 80% of the world's copper and other minerals. It was the discovery
of coal in and around Swansea, which lead to industrial development and growth
- first in the mining industry and later on in metal manufacturing. During this
era, local city kilns produced fine porcelain, which is still highly valued
by collectors today. Excellence in stained glass is one artistic tradition which
continues to earn Swansea a worldwide reputation. By the end of the 19th century,
90% of the tinplate mills in Britain were located within a 20 miles radius of
Swansea. At the same time, Swansea was developing its reputation as a spa and
seaside resort area.
As with many mining towns, Swansea continued to thrive until just before WW
I, after which a decline in the metal industries left the town to rely on the
exporting of coal, and importing other raw materials. Swansea suffered extensive
damage during WW II, and many of the historic buildings were destroyed. In 1969
Swansea was granted city status, and it is now the second largest city in Wales.
Selection of hotels in this region:
Ramada Encore Swansea | | Express by Holiday Inn Swansea | | Ramada Jarvis Swansea | | Holiday Inn Swansea | | Aberavon Beach Hotel | | Swansea Marriott Hotel | |
Click below for a
full list of hotels and online booking
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