Llangollen - Denbighshire is a small town in Wales which got its start by the founding of a church.
Established in the sixth century, it was a religious center more inland than many other Welsh towns.
It was still subject to a great deal of attack (though not from ships), which is why there is a stronghold castle there.
The high quantity of religious influence continued for most of its history.
Bishops and monastical orders built abbeys, bridges, and many halls and buildings.
They were the patrons of the town and therefore had huge amounts of influence.
One reason why the town continued to be successful and important was due to the roads.
This town was the place of an important mail stop, bringing many visitors and officials through its gates.
You could scarcely travel any distance in Wales without ending up there, since most roads lead to it.
There was also a very important waterway which made up for the lack of proximity to the ocean.
This waterway was intended to connect other towns with Llangollen and thereby make shipping easier.
It connected a few different industries including coal mines and iron works.
This man-made canal saved the area from financial ruin several times by being a very easy source of fast shipping.
It also attracted tourists, since the current was strong enough to participate in many water sports and activities.
The giant aqueduct there is hugely famous in the UK and the natural beauty of the area brings in much revenue.
There are moonlight tours and cruises through the area.
It is a quaint town with a stable local economy, a few festivals, and a 'silver' band which is for the town's elderly residents.
They not only play at many events but give patronage to young musicians and provide instruments and funding for school bands.
There is an art festival every year and is often chosen to host county events.