Cadw is a semi-autonomous publicly-funded body which with the mission to protect, conserve, and to promote the built heritage of Wales — the Welsh equivalent of English Heritage and Historic Scotland.

Most of Wales' great castles, and other monuments such as bishop's palaces, historic houses, and ruined abbeys, are now in Cadw's care. This does not mean that Cadw owns them, but it is responsible for their upkeep and for making them accessible to the public. Cadw is also responsible for "listing" and ensuring the preservation of historic buildings and archaeological sites.

The full title of the organisation is Cadw: Welsh Historic Monuments Executive Agency. It is a part of the National Assembly for Wales and hence part of the devolved powers of the government of the principality. It was created in 1984 and its headquarters are in Cardiff.

Origin of name

Cadw is a Welsh verb meaning to keep.

See also

• List of Cadw sites
• Conservation in the United Kingdom
• List of Conservation topics
• Castles in the United Kingdom
• Museums in Wales
• Historic houses in Wales
• Abbeys and priories in Wales

External links

• Official Cadw Web Site in English and Welsh
• Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales in English and Welsh