Visitor numbers to Caerphilly Castle were up 70% thanks to the giant dragon that graced its grounds earlier this year.
The 13th Century Grade I listed castle hosted the reptile-like creature between March and July before it went on a summer tour of Cadw sites across Wales.
Between March and July, more than 82,000 families visited the iconic castle – an increase of 70% compared to the same period last year.
The dragon installation was launched on St David’s Day this year as part of a campaign by Cadw and the Welsh Government called Historic Adventures.
Between July and September, around 135,000 families explored Cadw sites, contributing to a total visitor figure of more than 600,000 – the highest number ever recorded for the quarter.
The figures have been welcomed by Ken Skates AM, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure in Wales, which includes Culture, Tourism and Heritage.
He said: “This quarter has brought with it a hoard of impressive achievements for Cadw sites across Wales.
“Old records have been broken and new ones set as castles, abbeys and other historic monuments welcomed the largest number of July to September visitors in Cadw’s history.
“It shows that innovative ideas like the Cadw Dragon help to spark a renewed interest in our heritage which not only has a positive impact on our historic environment but also on Wales’s wider economy.
“These figures continue to demonstrate the real value and significance of heritage attractions and their important place within Wales’ tourism offering.
“I hope these iconic sites can continue to inspire the people of Wales and tourists alike to discover Welsh culture and heritage during the remainder of Wales’ 2016 Year of Adventure.”
Lynne Evans, owner of Glanmors Tearooms in Caerphilly town, said: “The café was heaving during the last two weeks of July – we couldn’t understand why we were so busy until we realised that the dragon was back at the castle.
“We had hundreds of family visitors, stretching from Caerphilly locals to people from further afield in Cardiff. It was absolutely tremendous to see the café so busy. The whole town was buzzing with talk about the dragon and Glanmors certainly benefited from it.”
Debbie Lewis, manager at WHSmith in Caerphilly town, added: “It was wonderful for Caerphilly to be involved in such a high-profile talking-point in Wales.
“It seemed like everyone in the community was talking about the dragon and the store was very busy as a result.
“We saw an obvious increase in tourists too, having met customers from elsewhere in the UK, America, Canada and even China – all of whom were very excited to meet the dragon.”
Cadw has confirmed the dragon will be returning to its home of Caerphilly Castle for the foreseeable future.