Breconshire

Breconshire or Brecknockshire, former county, south-eastern Wales; Brecon (Brecknock) was the county town. Breconshire comprised a largely mountainous region. Relics of prehistoric habitation, including lake dwellings, have been found in the area. Roman occupation lasted from the 1st to the 5th century ad, after which the area was ruled by the native prince Brychan (from whom the county's name is derived). It was conquered by the Normans in the late 11th century and made a county in 1536 by Henry VIII. In 1974 Breconshire was divided between the counties of Powys, Gwent, and Mid Glamorgan.