Cardiff is a city rich in history, but beyond its famous landmarks and sporting traditions, there are some truly fascinating stories that many people have never heard. From underground tunnels to royal scandals, here are 10 surprising facts about Cardiff’s past that might just change the way you see the city.
1️⃣ Cardiff Was Once the World’s Biggest Coal Exporter
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cardiff was known as “The Coal Capital of the World.” The city’s docks exported more coal than any other port on the planet, fueling the British Empire’s industrial revolution. At its peak, more than 10 million tonnes of coal left Cardiff Bay every year, making it one of the most important economic hubs in Europe.
🔹 Fact: The famous ‘Coal Exchange’ in Cardiff Bay was where the world’s first £1 million business deal was signed!
2️⃣ Cardiff Wasn’t Always the Capital of Wales
Many assume that Cardiff has always been the Welsh capital, but in reality, it only became the capital in 1955. Before that, Wales didn’t officially have a capital city. Other places like Caernarfon, Aberystwyth, and Machynlleth were contenders, but Cardiff was ultimately chosen due to its size, economy, and transport links.
📌 Imagine how different Wales might be today if another city had been chosen!
3️⃣ There’s a Hidden Underground Tunnel Network Beneath the City
Beneath the streets of Cardiff, a mysterious network of tunnels and bunkers is said to exist. Some date back centuries, possibly connecting Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, and the Bay. Others were built during World War II as air raid shelters.
Even today, workers occasionally discover bricked-up tunnels during renovations. Could there be more underground secrets yet to be found? 👀
4️⃣ Tiger Bay Was the UK’s First Multicultural Community
Long before cities like London and Manchester became known for their diversity, Cardiff’s Tiger Bay (now Cardiff Bay) was home to one of the UK’s first truly multicultural communities.
By the early 20th century, sailors and workers from over 50 different countries lived and worked in the area, including Somali, Yemeni, Caribbean, and Greek communities. Famous figures like Shirley Bassey grew up in Tiger Bay, reflecting its rich and diverse heritage.
🛳️ It’s amazing to think Cardiff was a pioneer in multicultural Britain!
5️⃣ Cardiff Castle Was a Secret War Bunker During WWII
During World War II, Cardiff Castle was used as a bomb shelter and military headquarters. Deep inside its walls, secret tunnels were built to protect government officials from air raids during the Cardiff Blitz.
Even today, visitors can explore some of these wartime tunnels, complete with old propaganda posters and air raid sirens.
6️⃣ The Principality Stadium Has a Secret River Running Beneath It
Underneath the Principality Stadium (formerly Millennium Stadium), there’s a hidden river called the Taff’s original course. Before the stadium was built, the River Taff ran right through what is now the pitch!
When construction began in the 1990s, engineers had to divert the river to prevent flooding. Even today, the original riverbed still exists below the stadium.
🏟️ Next time you’re at a rugby match, just remember—you’re standing over a hidden river!
7️⃣ Cardiff Once Had a Pyramid
It sounds unbelievable, but Cardiff was once home to a pyramid-shaped building! The Gaiety Grand Theatre, built in 1885, had a distinct pyramid-style roof, making it one of the most unique buildings in the city.
Sadly, it was demolished in 1952, and today the site is home to modern buildings near Queen Street. But for decades, Cardiffians could say they had their very own pyramid.
8️⃣ The City’s Name Might Mean ‘Fort on the River’
The name ‘Cardiff’ is believed to come from the Old Welsh name ‘Caerdyf’, which means “Fort on the River Taff”. The ‘Caer’ part refers to a Roman fort, which once stood near the modern-day Cardiff Castle.
🔹 Bonus Fact: The Romans occupied Cardiff over 1,900 years ago, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Wales!
9️⃣ Roald Dahl’s Childhood Was Inspired by Cardiff
World-famous author Roald Dahl (creator of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, and The BFG) was born in Llandaff, Cardiff, in 1916.
One of his early childhood pranks, where he put a dead mouse in a sweet shop’s jar, inspired scenes in his book Boy: Tales of Childhood. The shop he visited as a child was located in Llandaff High Street, and although it no longer exists, it’s still a part of Cardiff’s literary history.
📖 Who knew Cardiff played a role in inspiring one of the world’s greatest storytellers?
🔟 The Oldest Record Store in the World is in Cardiff
Love music? Cardiff is home to Spillers Records, the oldest record shop in the world, established in 1894. Originally, it sold phonographs and wax cylinders, but today it continues to thrive as a hub for vinyl collectors and music lovers.
🎵 Spillers is a must-visit for music fans and history buffs alike!