Cynyr Ceinfarfog facts for kids
Cynyr Ceinfarfog (born c. 480) was an important leader in Wales long ago. He ruled a place called the Kingdom of Dyfed. People also knew him by other names, like Cunoricus in Latin, or Kendrick and Cynyr the Red in English.
Some old Welsh stories about King Arthur say that Cynyr was the person who raised Arthur. He was like a foster parent to Arthur, along with his own son, Sir Kay. Later stories, however, said that Sir Ector raised King Arthur instead.
Cynyr was born around 480 AD. He might have been born a Roman citizen, which means he had the rights and status of someone from the Roman Empire. He ruled from a place called Caer Goch, which was close to Mynyw (now known as St. Davids). Some historians think he might have been the son of Aergol Lawhir and the brother of Vortiporius. They also suggest he might have been a saint, not just a king.
Contents
Who Was Cynyr Ceinfarfog?
Cynyr Ceinfarfog was a significant figure in early Welsh history. He lived during a time when different kingdoms existed across Wales. As a ruler, he would have been responsible for leading his people and managing his lands. His connection to the famous King Arthur legend makes him a very interesting historical character.
His Role in Legends
The stories about King Arthur are very old and have changed over time. In the earliest Welsh versions of these tales, Cynyr Ceinfarfog played a key role. He was described as the person who took care of and raised the young Arthur. This means he was Arthur's foster father. His own son, Sir Kay, was also part of this story. These early legends show how important Cynyr was to the beginnings of the Arthurian tales.
Where Did He Live and Rule?
Cynyr Ceinfarfog's main base was Caer Goch. This place was located near Mynyw, which is now known as St. Davids. St. Davids is a very famous religious site in Wales today. Ruling from Caer Goch meant Cynyr was in a strategic location within the Kingdom of Dyfed. This area was important for its history and its connections to early Welsh Christianity.
Cynyr's Family Connections
Cynyr Ceinfarfog had a large and influential family. He is believed to have been married twice. His first wife was Princess Sefin, who was the daughter of St. Brychan, a king from Brycheiniog. His second wife was Anna, the daughter of Vortimer.
His Children
Cynyr was the father of two very important saints:
- Saint Non: She is known as the mother of Saint David, who is the patron saint of Wales.
- Saint Wenna: She was the mother of Saint Cybi.
His Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren
Cynyr's family continued to be important through his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His grandchildren included:
- Saint Cybi
- Saint David, the patron saint of Wales.
His great-grandchildren included:
- Winwaloe
- Jacut
- Wethenoc (also known as Gwethenoc or Guethenoc)
- Creirwy (also known as Creirvy or Klervi)
- Cadfan
