Aberystwyth is a popular seaside resort in western Wales. An important Welsh cultural and educational center, the town lies on the coast of Cardigan Bay, at the mouths of the River Rheidol and the River Ystwyth. Aberystwyth is the seat of one of the colleges of the University of Wales. Some departments of the university and the National Library of Wales stand on the hills behind the town. Aberystwyth and the surrounding area have a population of about 61,800.
Aberystwyth has a small harbor, a beach, a promenade, and a pier. The ruins of a Norman castle overlook the promenade.
