Harlech is a seaside resort and also area in the north-west Wales area of Gwynedd. Before 1974 it remained in the historical boundaries of Merionethshire The community rests on Tremadog Bay in the centre of Gwynedd within the Snowdonia National Park. It has remained in the unitary authority of Gwynedd because 1996, and before that in the Meirionydd District of the 1974 County of Gwynedd. Of its population of 1,447, 51 per cent repeatedly speak the Welsh language. Its landmark Harlech Castle was begun in 1283 by Edward I of England, caught by Owain Glyndwr, as well as in the 1480s a garrison of Henry Tudor. It was built on a high cliff face alongside the sea, yet shoreline adjustments imply it currently lies about half a mile (800 m) inland. New housing has been built in the low town area as well as in the high town around the buying street, church and also castle. Both locations are connected by a high, winding road called "Twtil".