Capel Gwladys – 1600 years old

The site of Capel Gwaldys was discovered at the beginning of the last Century, when a decorated and inscribed stone slab was uncovered. This is incised with a ring cross and probably dates from around the 8th to the 9th Century. The remains of an enclosure wall were also found. It is said that the site was founded by Gwladys, the mother of St. Cadoc. If true, this would date the foundation of the site to the early 6th Century.

There is no evidence to suggest that any type of settlement grew up around Capel Gwladys, although this does not mean that it did not exist. The earliest post-Roman evidence of settlement in the area occurs to the northeast. Along the east of Cefn Gelligaer, a group of platform houses have been dated to around the 13th to 14th Century. (Copied from Caerphilly Council website).

Capel Gwladys (or Capel Wladus) is the ruins of a medieval Chapel. Historians suggest the site was founded by St. Gwladys (Claudia in Latin), daughter of Brychan, and the wife of St. Gwynllyw Filwr, and mother of St. Cadoc "the wise". It is told that the High-King Arthur supported Gwynllyw's request to wed Gwladys and helped persuade her father to allow the marriage.

Whilst I enjoyed my visit I was appalled at the litter and fly tipping 😥 I really don’t understand why people have no respect for the beautiful country we live in.