Wales, though modest in size, boasts a fascinating mosaic of cities—each one unique in history, character, and scale. As of now, there are seven officially recognized cities in Wales. These are:
- Cardiff (Caerdydd) – the vibrant capital
- Swansea (Abertawe) – the second-largest urban hub
- Newport (Casnewydd) – a city with industrial roots
- Wrexham (Wrecsam) – the newest addition, granted city status in 2022
- Bangor – steeped in ancient cathedral heritage
- St Davids (Tyddewi) – the UK’s smallest city by population
- St Asaph (Llanelwy) – a tiny gem with rich history
Let’s unpack the story behind this number, why it matters, and what it tells us about Welsh identity.
Why There Are Seven Cities in Wales
1. City Status: A Royal Grant, Not a Population Threshold
City status in the UK is conferred by letters patent or royal charter—it’s not about population or urban sprawl. Unlike many countries where any large settlement is called a city, UK cities earn the title through a formal process. In Wales, that means some rural or cathedral towns have the “city” label, while some sizeable urban areas might not.
2. Historical Waves of Recognition
- Cardiff: Made a city in 1905 and later named the capital in 1955, it rose from modest origins to national leadership.
- Swansea: Elevated in 1969 during Prince Charles’s investiture tour.
- St Davids: Cathedral-based legacy translated into city status in 1994.
- Newport: Earned its title in 2002 during the Queen’s Golden Jubilee honors.
- St Asaph: Long regarded as a “city” historically, it got official recognition in 2012 during the Diamond Jubilee.
- Wrexham: After several near misses (2000, 2002, 2012), it finally secured city status in 2022 as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
3. Cathedral Towns vs. Urban Centers
St Davids and St Asaph are small in terms of population but carry outsized cultural or ecclesiastical importance—their status stems from historical and religious significance, not population. Meanwhile, cities like Newport and Swansea reflect more modern, urban evolution.
A Snapshot of the Cities: From Capital to Cathedral Town
Cardiff: The Political and Cultural Heart
Cardiff isn’t just the capital; it’s a cultural hub—home to the Senedd (Welsh Parliament), Principality Stadium, and a thriving creative scene. As the largest city, it anchors national identity and governance.
Swansea: Coastal Charm and Literary Legacy
With its rich maritime history and Dylan Thomas heritage, Swansea blends natural beauty with coastal energy. It’s Wales’ second-largest city, offering a fusion of arts, beaches, and industrial legacy.
Newport: Industry Reimagined
Once a powerhouse of coal and shipping, Newport has reimagined itself. The Transporter Bridge stands as an icon, while pop-up arts and cultural enterprise continue to shape its modern identity.
Wrexham: Modern Momentum Meets Heritage
This city’s journey to recognition reflects persistence—after multiple bids, it finally succeeded in 2022. Its football club, revived under Hollywood ownership, has become a symbol of renewed pride.
Bangor: Academic History in a Small Package
Bangor quietly stands out—home to one of the oldest cathedral sites and a significant university, it blends historical depth with student vibrancy despite its modest population.
St Davids and St Asaph: Tiny but Mighty
St Davids is literally a city no bigger than a village. Its importance lies in religious legacy, not population. Similarly, St Asaph’s cathedral and cultural heritage outweigh its small size.
The Importance of Seven: Context and Meaning
Cultural Identity and Decentralization
The variety of city sizes—from bustling Cardiff to pastoral St Davids—reflects Wales’s layered identity. It showcases a nation where heritage, language, and civic pride matter as much as population.
Civic Recognition and Local Prestige
Each new city—like Wrexham in 2022—marks a moment of local aspiration and achievement. These status upgrades often bring renewed attention, tourism, and funding to regions otherwise overshadowed.
“City status is not a measure of size—it’s a reflection of identity, history, and ambition,” notes a civic historian in reflecting on Wrexham’s long journey to recognition.
Strategic Evolution via Royal Honours
The pattern of city grants—linked to jubilees and civic celebrations—illustrates how tradition and modern governance intertwine in the UK’s system of honors. Towns invest years hoping to elevate their profile.
City List: A Handy Table
| City | Year City Status Granted | Notable Traits |
|————-|—————————|———————————————|
| Cardiff | 1905 | Capital, largest city, cultural hub |
| Swansea | 1969 | Coastal, literary heritage |
| St Davids | 1994 | Smallest UK city, cathedral town |
| Newport | 2002 | Industrial roots, evolving cultural scene |
| St Asaph | 2012 | Historical, cathedral significance |
| Wrexham | 2022 | Newly recognized, modern resurgence |
| Bangor | 1974 (cathedral roots) | Ancient religious site, university presence |
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Wales today has seven cities, each reflecting a different facet of national identity—from Cardiff’s political prominence to St Davids’ spiritual heritage. City status isn’t just about population; it’s a blend of history, civic aspiration, and often, royal recognition. For anyone exploring Welsh geography or culture, understanding why there are seven—and why such diversity—offers a richer picture than looking at maps alone.
FAQs
How many cities are there in Wales?
Wales currently has seven officially recognized cities: Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Wrexham, Bangor, St Davids, and St Asaph.
Why are some Welsh cities so small by population?
City status in Wales isn’t tied to population. Towns like St Davids and St Asaph earned their titles due to historical, ecclesiastical, or cultural significance rather than size.
When did Wrexham become a city and why only then?
Wrexham was formally granted city status in 2022, during Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee civic honors. It had tried unsuccessfully in 2000, 2002, and 2012 before succeeding.
Which is the largest city in Wales?
Cardiff is the largest city in Wales by population and serves as the capital. It was granted city status in 1905 and became the political center of Wales mid-century.
What is the smallest city in the UK?
St Davids holds the title of the smallest city in the UK by population, with just a few thousand residents but significant historical importance.
Does becoming a city bring benefits?
While city status doesn’t automatically come with new funding, it raises a place’s profile—often aiding tourism, civic pride, and cultural investment.
