St Davids
Described as the jewel in the crown of Wales, St David's is the smallest city in the United Kingdom, with a population of under 2,000 people. It lies in the centre of the Peninsula on the River Alun. St David's is the ecclesiastical capital of Wales the final resting place of Saint David the patron Saint of Wales. The city is based around the Cathedral, which was built on the site of Davids monastery in the 12th century. It became a popular place of pilgrimage in the middle ages after Pope Calixtus 11 decreed that two pilgrimages to St Davids was equal to one to Rome. As a result a vast income was raised by visiting pilgrims. Next to the Cathedral lies the 14th century Bishops Palace which, now a ruin, is in the care of Cadw and is open to visitors. Other than the Cathedral, attractions include the 13th century Tower Gate, the Celtic Cross on the Cross Square and the new art gallery of Wales - Oriel Y Parc . There are plenty of shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs centred around the High Street along with a few hotels and guesthouses in and around the city.