Conwy

Conwy (also Conway), town on the estuary of the River Conwy, Conwy, north Wales. During the 19th century transport improvements were brought about by the suspension bridge (1826) designed by Thomas Telford and the tubular railway bridge (1848) designed by Robert Stephenson. Conwy's main industry is tourism and it is a popular centre for sailing enthusiasts. It is one of the few remaining examples of a completely walled medieval town. Within the 1,400 m (4,590 ft) circumference of these walls is Conwy Castle (c. 1284), built by Edward I to subdue the Welsh. St Mary's Church occupies the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey which was relocated by Edward I. A museum of the town's history since Roman times is housed in Aberconwy, a stone and timber manor house dating from the 14th century. Population (1991 estimate) 13,500.