Myths and Legends Based in North & Mid Wales

North Wales is full of fascinating stories. The history, culture and uniqueness of Snowdonia and the surrounding areas has been shaped by these tales. There is an association with a myth or legend alongside nearly every lake, mountain, hill or village. 

The most well known collection of stories is known as the Mabinogion. This tells the adventures and events of a group of characters who cross between the mortal and underworlds. 

Here’s a small insight at a few of the myths and legends based around North and Mid Wales:

The Legend of Gelert the Dog – Beddgelert

If you really love dogs then you might want to skip to the next one, as this is not a happy story. The town ‘Beddgelert’ translates to ‘Gelert’s Grave’, the resting place of the dog in the tale. 

Gelert was a dog that belonged to Llywelyn the Great. One day when Llywelyn and his wife returned from hunting, they were greeted by Gelert covered in blood. They immediately went to check on their child, who was nowhere to be found. 

In the distress Llywelyn killed Gelert, thinking he had eaten his child, only to hear the baby crying next to a dead wolf soon after. Gelert had only been protecting the child from the wolf. You can visit a bronze statue in Beddgelert, which was placed in honour of the dog.

Angelystor – Llangernyw

Angelystor, despite sounding like ‘angel’ is the name of a dark supernatural character that is told to appear in Llangernyw twice each year. The figure is said to emerge on halloween, and on the 31st July in the churchyard, beneath an ancient yew tree. 

Angelystor recites in Welsh the names of the locals who will have their lives ended soon – creepy!

Bran and Branwen – Harlech

The goddess known as Branwen, was stuck in an unpleasant marriage with the King of Ireland. In an attempt to ignore her misery, she decided to teach a Starling how to say her name. 

She told the bird to fly over the sea to Wales, where it found her brother Bran, who was a giant. Bran heard the news and waded across the sea to save Branwen. Along the way, he dropped a large rock out of his pocket and left a giant footprint on Harlech’s beach. 

Cadair Idris – Dolgellau

Cadair Idris is a mountain in Dolgellau. The name translates to ‘Idris’ Chair’, and it is one of the most recognisable shaped mountains in Wales. 

Idris was a giant, who is said to have used the mountain as his throne. Those who dare climb the mountain and sleep there, will apparently either lose their minds or never wake up again!

While all of these legends are great fun, they certainly also add to the mystique and wonder of the North Wales region. The many wonders of North Wales leads people towrads the decison of purchasing static caravans for sale Snowdonia. Simply contact us to find out more.

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