Guardians of Chirk Castle: A National Trust Mythical Christmas Tale

Step into a world of enchantment this Christmas at Chirk Castle, where art, history, and mythology converge in a breathtaking celebration of creativity. As part of our collaboration with Chirk Castle,  Lazerian presents Castle Guards (Guardians of the Castle) – a stunning collection of mythical creatures and animals that bring the castle’s heritage and festive spirit to life.

These guardians—a green dragon, three majestic wolves, and a radiant unicorn—each carry deep symbolic meaning and are designed to complement the rich tapestry of Chirk Castle’s history. Let’s take a closer look at these extraordinary sculptures, their mythology, and how they connect to the castle’s narrative.

Nestled in the Welsh Marches, Chirk Castle stands as a magnificent medieval fortress with over 700 years of storied history. This imposing silhouette has been home to the Myddelton family for more than 400 years, making it the last castle from its period still lived in today. As a symbol of power and English intent in disputed lands, Chirk Castle’s presence is a brooding statement of historical significance and architectural grandeur.

Completed in 1310 during the reign of Edward I, Chirk Castle was built to subdue the last princes of Wales, serving as a formidable stronghold for the English monarchy. Over the centuries, the castle has witnessed numerous transformations, evolving from a medieval fortress to a stately home with lavish interiors and beautifully preserved sections. Today, Chirk Castle is a popular tourist destination in North Wales, drawing visitors from around the globe to explore its rich history and architectural splendor.

Our fierce green dragon first made its debut during Easter at Chirk Castle, guarding treasures with a commanding presence. This Christmas, the dragon returns with renewed vitality, now stationed in Cromwell Hall, protecting a glittering hoard of gold coins.

Dragons hold a special place in Welsh mythology, representing strength, protection, and resilience. By choosing a green hue instead of the traditional fiery red, we aimed to evoke themes of renewal, growth, and hope—perfect for the festive season. The dragon not only stands as a guardian of treasures but also as a symbol of vitality and transformation.

We built the dragon using a wireframe structure cloaked in green fabric and illuminated from within. This approach allowed us to create a dynamic yet ethereal form, casting intricate shadows that bring the dragon to life. Each twist and curve of the structure was meticulously crafted to embody both movement and strength, blending mythology with modern artistic techniques.

As you journey through the castle’s Long Gallery, you’ll encounter three dark wolves prowling amongst the treasures. Inspired by the Myddelton family crest, these wolves are not just guardians—they are storytellers, weaving the family’s legacy into the castle’s festive atmosphere.

In mythology, wolves often symbolize loyalty, community, and protection. In Welsh folklore, they are protectors of the wild, representing perseverance and strength. By placing these wolves in the Long Gallery, we connected their mythological role to the treasures they guard, including the historic King’s Chest.

The wolves, like the dragon, are constructed from wireframe forms cloaked in black fabric. Their sleek, prowling stances capture an aura of strength and vigilance, as if they are forever patrolling the gallery. The shadow play created by internal lighting enhances their sense of mystery and movement.

In the castle chapel stands a radiant white unicorn, rearing majestically in its sacred surroundings. This mythical creature is a symbol of purity, spirituality, and grace, making it a fitting guardian for the chapel.

Unicorns have long been associated with divine protection and healing. In medieval lore, they were seen as symbols of purity and were often depicted in religious art. Our unicorn draws inspiration from one of Chirk Castle’s 17th-century wood carvings, creating a direct link to the castle’s artistic heritage.

For the unicorn, we used the same wireframe technique, this time cloaking the structure in white fabric to emphasize its purity and ethereal beauty. Its rearing pose conveys both strength and elegance, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on its symbolism.

Historical and Mythical Protectors of Chirk Castle

Chirk Castle’s storied past is rich with tales of valiant defenders who have safeguarded its walls and grounds through the ages. From the medieval knights who once patrolled its battlements to the mythical creatures said to roam the surrounding forests, the castle has always been a bastion of protection and loyalty.

One of the most legendary defenders is the dragon of the nearby mountains. Local lore speaks of this fierce creature, whose fiery breath and formidable presence deterred any would-be invaders. This dragon, much like our green guardian in Cromwell Hall, symbolizes the strength and resilience that have always been part of Chirk Castle’s legacy.

But the castle’s protectors are not only mythical. Over the centuries, talented artists and craftsmen have also played a crucial role in its defense, adorning the castle with stunning works of art and sculpture. Among these artists is Doug Hyde, a renowned bronze sculptor whose creations add a touch of timeless beauty to the castle’s interiors. His solid bronze sculptures, along with those of other gifted artists, form a collection that speaks to the castle’s rich artistic heritage.

Today, the guardianship of Chirk Castle continues with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. From curators who meticulously care for the art and sculpture collections to gardeners who maintain the lush grounds, each member of the team contributes to preserving the castle’s legacy. Their efforts ensure that Chirk Castle remains a place of wonder and history for future generations to explore and enjoy.

During the holiday season, Chirk Castle transforms into a haven of magic and wonder. The castle’s lavish interiors, adorned with festive decorations, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. From the grand Christmas tree to twinkling garlands, every detail adds to the enchantment.

As you wander through the castle, these mythical guardians invite you to consider the treasures we hold dear—both the physical ones and the intangible values of love, loyalty, and hope. Each creature, carefully placed within the castle’s rooms, enhances the experience of exploring Chirk Castle’s history and festive charm.

A Celebration of Myth, History, and a Beautiful and Eclectic Collection of Art