12/12/2022
Cardiff castle has over 2,000 years of history. Originally built by the Roman's as a fort, it passed through the hands of the Norman's among many others before coming into ownership of the Butes family. John Patrick Crichton-Stuart, 3rd Marquess of Bute inherited the castle along with a vast fortune. In 1865 Lord Bute in partnership with architect William Burges began one of the greatest restoration projects lasting 16 years, transforming the castle into the Neo Gothic beauty it is today. In 1947 5th Marquess of Bute, also named John, donated the castle to the people of Cardiff.
The library is located in the oldest part of the house and is one of the most important rooms. Having inherited his fortune, the 3rd Marquess would spend his time learning languages. The theme of the library is 'Literature and Language'. Above the fire place the five ancient languages are depicted:
Greek, Hebrew, Assyrian, Hieroglyphics and Runic.
The library contains the original bookshelves and tables, however the book collection was taken when the family moved.