Arthfael Hen ap Rhys facts for kids
Arthfael Hen ap Rhys, also known as Arthfael the Old, was a king in an old Welsh kingdom called Kingdom of Glywysing. This kingdom was located in what is now modern-day Wales. He ruled from about 785 AD to around 825 AD.
Arthfael's Life and Rule
Arthfael was the second son of Gweirydd ap Brochfael. He came from important royal families, including Saint Tewdrig and Meurig ap Tewdrig from the Kingdom of Gwent, and also Brychan. This meant he was a prince in two kingdoms: Glywysing and Gwent. His cousin, Athrwys, was the king of Gwent at that time.
Arthfael became King of Glywysing in 785. He took over from his father, Rhys ap Ithael. He married a princess from the Kingdom of Buellt. They had two sons, Rhys ap Arthfael and Meureg ap Arthfael.
Even though Arthfael was the main king, his kingdom was split into smaller parts. His relatives, like cousins, nephews, and uncles, ruled these smaller areas. They acted like kings in their own sections. It's thought that Arthfael didn't have much direct power over them. However, he was still recognized as the most important king in Glywysing.
How Arthfael Died
Arthfael died in a battle against the Anglo-Saxons between 815 and 825. This battle happened near a church in Roath, which is close to modern-day Cardiff. Even though Arthfael died, his army won the fight. He was later buried in the church in Roath.
His son, Rhys ap Arthfael, became the next king of Glywysing. Later, in 848, Arthfael's cousin Ithael ap Athrwys, who was King of Gwent, passed away. Arthfael's other son, Meureg ap Arthfael, then became king of Gwent. This meant Arthfael's two sons ruled both kingdoms together.
