Cynan Dindaethwy facts for kids

Cynan Dindaethwy (which means "Cynan of Dindaethwy") was an important king in early medieval Wales. He was also known as Cynan ap Rhodri, meaning "Cynan son of Rhodri". Cynan ruled the kingdom of Gwynedd from about 798 to 816.

Cynan became king after King Caradog ap Meirion died in 798. His special name, Dindaethwy, comes from a place called Dindaethwy in Anglesey. Unlike later kings who lived in Aberffraw, Cynan had his main court in Llanfaes. His time as king was mostly filled with a big fight against a rival named Hywel. Many people think Hywel was his brother.

Cynan's Time as King

Cynan's early years as king are not well-known. However, his rule ended with some tough times. These included both natural problems and battles.

Challenges During His Reign

In 810, a serious illness spread among cattle across Wales. This "bovine plague" killed many animals. The next year, Deganwy, an old wooden royal court, was hit by lightning. These events added to the difficulties of his reign.

War with Hywel

A big war between Cynan and Hywel happened on Anglesey from 812 to 816. This conflict ended with Cynan losing and being sent away from his kingdom.

Historians like John Edward Lloyd often say that Cynan and Hywel were brothers. However, old records like the Annals of Wales only mention their names. They do not say if they were related or what their titles were. Other old family records, like those from Jesus College MS 20 and the Harleian genealogies, say that Cynan and Hywel were not brothers. They suggest Hywel was the son of Caradog ap Meirion and a distant cousin of Cynan.

Cynan died within a year of being sent away. This is recorded in both the Annals of Wales and the Irish Annals.

After Cynan's Death

After Cynan died, a battle took place at his old court in Llanfaes on Anglesey. Old writings mention this fight, but they do not say who was involved.

Cynan had a daughter named Esyllt. She became the mother of Merfyn Frych ap Gwriad. Merfyn became King of Gwynedd in 825. He was important because he was the first king of Gwynedd not to be a direct male descendant of the famous ruler Cunedda.

See also

• Kings of Wales family trees

Images for kids

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  A map of Gwynedd showing its traditional areas called cantrefs.