This morning on social media, I published a little post wishing everyone a Happy St Dwynwen’s Day (or Dydd Santes Dwywen Hapus to be precise).
But who was St Dywnwen – and why is there a day dedicated to her?
Well – St Dwynwen was a princess a long, long time ago (the 4th century if you need more detail) and she was the daughter of King Brychan Brycheiniog (one of his 24 daughters – yes, that’s right – 24!). She was said to be the prettiest (who said that and why that’s important I am not entirely sure). Anyway… I digress
So – the story goes that Dwynwen fell in love with a local man named Maelon. He was a Prince and everything. However – as was often the case back then – the King had other ideas and had already arranged for her to marry a different Prince.
Apparently – Maelon did approach the King and ask for Dwynwen’s hand – but that was refused. Maelon was furious – and took his anger out on Dwynwen (various stories about that – but let’s just say it wasn’t nice). Maelon went off in a rage – whilst Dwynwen ran to the woods in tears.
Whilst weeping – she begged God for help – and was visited by an angel who first gave her a potion to help her forget Maelon – which had the weird side effect of turning Maelon into a block of ice.
Then – God granted Dwynwen 3 wishes (why is it always 3?).
What did she wish for, I hear you ask (well OK – I can’t hear you but I am sure you want to know, otherwise you wouldn’t be here):
Wish number one: For Maelon to be thawed (not sure how she knew he was a block of ice… especially since the potion was meant to make her forget him.. )
Wish number two: She asked for true love to be protected in her name (aww, see that’s why we like her).
Wish number three: That she would never again fall in love or marry anyone. (so sad 😢)
Of course – all were granted. So what became of the lovely Dwynwen?
Well, she left home. That way her father could not arrange for her to be married, then she became a nun, travelling around Wales, setting up churches and praying for those who were troubled in love. Her final stop was the island of Llanddwyn, which is just off Anglesey (Ybys Môn), where the remains of Dwynwen’s church can be seen today.
And there you have it – a short history of St Dwynwen. You can find much more information on sites such as Cadw or Visit Wales – including lots more about beautiful Wales.
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