Tintagel in Cornwall, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Where history meets legend
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 5, 2018
1. Where history meets legend Marker
Tintagel Castle has long been connected with the mythical King Arthur and its history is entwined with legend. But what really happened here?
In the 5th and 6th centuries AD there was a large, high-status settlement on the headland. It was probably the seasonal home of a regional king.
Tintagel was first linked to King Arthur by Geoffrey of Monmouth in the 12th century, who wrote that Arthur was magically conceived at Tintagel. It was also known in the Middle Ages as King Mark of Cornwall's castle, which featured in the love story of Tristan and Iseult.
Richard, Earl of Cornwall, built a castle here in about 1230. He chose Tintagel because of its legendary associations that placed him in the long tradition of Cornish kings.
In the Victorian period there was a revival of interest in Arthurian stories that led artists and poets such as Alfred, Lord Tennyson to visit the castle. The large cave on the beach is known as Merlin's Cave because of the famous scene in Tennyson's Idylls of the King.
You can explore the dramatic Merlin's Cave when the tide is low. Please ask a member of staff for today's tide times.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles.
Location. 50° 40.101′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Haven (a few steps from this marker); Prince Dafydd’s tale (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); Florence’s shelter (about 90 meters away); A complicated ruin (about 90 meters away); Excavations and discoveries (about 90 meters away); The Sheriff’s Tale (about 120 meters away); The Trader’s tale (about 120 meters away); Upper Courtyard (about 120 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Tintagel.
Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 5, 2018
2. Where history meets legend Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on October 2, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 204 times since then and 38 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 2, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.
