outh Glamorgan is dominated by Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Founded on the site of a Roman fort, the city has its strongest roots in Celtic culture. West Glamorgan is largely an upland region and includes Swansea, the second-largest city in Wales. Mid Glamorgan comprises a lowland region bordering on the Bristol Channel in the south. Steep valleys descend from the Brecon Beacons in the north. Coal mining has long been associated with the Rhondda valley, and although the industry has declined in recent years, the mining villages, lined with rows of terraced houses, have retained their distinctive character.