Cardiff is a historical city, proud of its past and its heritage - that doesn't mean stuffy and boring museums though! Throughout Cardiff and the region you can see examples of Welsh history, life, industrial past and culture, in an exciting and interactive way.

As well as this, the city and its surrounding area boasts numerous examples of Welsh castles and fortifications. From Cardiff Castle's lavish and opulent interiors from the hand of William Burges to the magnificent leaning tower of Caerphilly, the UK's second largest castle, discover South Wales' castle's here.

Hands-on-history

Just outside Cardiff St Fagans National History Museum is one of the world's best open-air museums. Set in the grounds of St Fagans Castle the museum is home to over forty original historical buildings. As a living museum you'll find craftsmen demonstrating their skills. Find out more about the museum here.

Big Pit: The National Coal Museum is a real coal mine and one of Britain's leading mining museums. With facilities to educate and entertain all ages, Big Pit is an exciting and informative day out. For more industrial history Rhondda Heritage Park offers a fascinating insight into the rich culture and character of the Rhondda Valleys.

In Caerphilly county, you can go back in time at Llancaiach Fawr Manor, where the past and present meet. This restored gentry manor house lets you immerse yourself in the time of the Civil Wars as costumed servants of the house live and work as in 1645.

Through the ages

The National Museum Cardiff brings together art, archaeology, natural history and geology, all for free. Follow Wales's amazing journey from the very beginning of time to the present day. Everyday objects and beautiful artefacts tell the stories of the people of Wales and explore our links with the past.

The National Roman Legion Museum at Caerleon displays a remarkable collection of finds from Roman Caerleon, the base of the second Augustan Legion, the furthest outpost of the Roman Empire.

The Cardiff Story, is where Cardiffians and visitors alike can see Cardiff's story through the eyes of its people. Housed in the beautiful and historic Old Library building in the heart of the city centre, the museum provides an introduction to the city’s history and heritage. To discover more about Caerphilly County borough, The Winding House tells the history of the County Borough from its first inhabitants to the present day - from the Celts and the Romans, to Castles, Cavaliers and the Industrial Revolution!

Churches & Cathedrals

St John the Baptist Parish Church is the oldest church in the city centre and is the oldest remaining medieval building in the city after Cardiff Castle, dating from the 12th century. Just outside the city centre, the beautiful Llandaff Cathedral is set in a secluded location beside the River Taff. It occupies one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain in the ancient 'City of Llandaff'. In Cardiff Bay, the Norwegian Church is where children's author Roald Dahl was christened and is now a unique arts venues. Find out more about churches and cathedrals here.

To see a full list of Cardiff's historical attractions and museums, click here.