Sacred Sites of Wales

Wales, a land steeped in ancient myths and legends, boasts a wealth of sacred sites that reflect its rich spiritual heritage. From prehistoric burial chambers and standing stones to medieval churches and holy wells, these sites offer glimpses into the beliefs and practices of the people who have inhabited this land for millennia. While Christianity has been the dominant religion in Wales for centuries, traces of earlier pagan traditions and Celtic folklore still linger in many of these sacred places.

Bachwen Cromlech, Clynnog Fawr Dolmen

Located near the village of Clynnog Fawr, this Neolithic dolmen is a significant archaeological site and a testament to the region's ancient past. It is believed to have been used for burial and ritualistic purposes.

Bodowyr Dolmen, Anglesey

This Neolithic burial chamber on the island of Anglesey is one of the largest and best-preserved in Wales. It is a significant archaeological site and offers insights into the burial practices and beliefs of the people who lived in the region over 5,000 years ago.

Carn Ingli Holy Mountain

This prominent hill in Pembrokeshire is steeped in mythology and folklore. It is believed to have been a sacred site for the ancient Druids and is associated with numerous legends and stories.

Llanthony Priory, Brecon Beacons

The ruins of this Augustinian priory in the Brecon Beacons are a testament to its former grandeur and importance. It was founded in the 12th century and is a significant historical landmark.

Lligwy Dolmen, Anglesey

This Neolithic burial chamber on the island of Anglesey is another significant archaeological site and a reminder of the region's ancient past.

Mt. Cadair Idris, Wales

This mountain in Snowdonia National Park is steeped in Welsh mythology and folklore. It is said to be the chair of the giant Idris, and legends tell of a lake on the mountain where anyone who sleeps will awaken either a poet or a madman.

Nevern Church, Pembrokeshire

This 12th-century church in Pembrokeshire is known for its well-preserved Celtic cross and its association with several early Christian saints, including St. Brynach. It is a place of pilgrimage and historical significance.

Our Lady of Cardigan, Wales

Also known as Our Lady of the Taper, this Marian shrine in Cardigan was a popular pilgrimage destination in the Middle Ages. It is believed to have been founded by St. Mary in the 6th century.

Penrhos Feilw Standing Stones, Holy Island

Located on Holy Island off the coast of Anglesey, these standing stones are believed to have been erected in the Bronze Age. Their exact purpose is unknown, but they are thought to have served ritualistic or astronomical purposes.

St. Melangell's Church

Located in the village of Pennant Melangell, this 12th-century church is dedicated to St. Melangell, a 6th-century Welsh princess who became a hermit. It is a place of pilgrimage and is known for its association with the legend of the hare saved by the saint.

St. Beuno's Church and Well, Clynnog Fawr

This church in Clynnog Fawr is dedicated to St. Beuno, a 7th-century Welsh saint. It is a place of pilgrimage and is known for its holy well, believed to have healing properties.

St. Cybi's Church, Holyhead, Holy Island

This 13th-century church on Holy Island is dedicated to St. Cybi, a 6th-century Welsh saint. It is a place of pilgrimage and is known for its association with the saint and its historical significance.

St. Davids and St. Non's

St. Davids, the smallest city in Britain, is home to St. Davids Cathedral, the final resting place of St. David, the patron saint of Wales. Nearby is St. Non's Chapel, where St. David is believed to have been born. Both sites are important pilgrimage destinations.

St. Winefride's Well, Holywell

A holy well in Holywell, Flintshire, associated with Saint Winefride, a 7th-century Welsh princess who was beheaded but miraculously restored to life. The well is believed to have healing properties and is a popular pilgrimage destination.

Strata Florida Abbey, Ceredigion

This Cistercian abbey in Ceredigion was once a major religious and cultural center in Wales. Its ruins offer insights into the abbey's architecture and its role in Welsh history.

Trefignath Cromlech, Holy Island

This Neolithic burial chamber on Holy Island is one of the largest and most impressive in Wales. It is a significant archaeological site and offers insights into the burial practices and beliefs of the people who lived in the region over 5,000 years ago.