THE STORY OF DWYNWEN

Long, long ago lived a king. The king's name was Brychan Brycheinion. He was king of Wales. He had twenty four children, they were all beautiful but his daughter Dwynwen was the most beautiful. She had hair as black as the darkest night sky, her skin was as white as snow and her lips as red as wine. The king arranged a feast, everyone was invited, amongst the guests was a Prince called Maelon Draffodill. He and Dwynwen instantly fell in love. The prince asked Dwynwen if she would marry him, she was delighted but knew that he would have to ask her father first. The prince hurried to ask the king for Dwynwen's hand in marriage. He was furious at the request and said " My daughter is already promised to another rich prince. Prince Maelon left without a word to Dwynwen, he was heart broken. Dwynwen was very upset she ran into the forest and started to pray that her broken heart may be mended. Soon she fell asleep. She had a dream, in her dream an angel came to her, the angel offered her a golden cup. Dwynwen drank from the cup and was granted three wishes. She wised never to love again. Dwynwen became a nun and a church was built in Llanddwyn. The church can still be seen there today and a cross to commemorate Dwynwen. In Wales we celebrate 'Dydd Santes Dwynwen' on the 25th of January. Couples give each other cards.