Donyarth facts for kids
Donyarth, also known as Doniert or Dungarth, was a king in Cornwall who lived a long time ago. He was the last king of Cornwall that we know about from old records. He probably ruled under the West Saxons, which means he paid them tribute.
Who Was King Donyarth?
Donyarth is believed to be the "Doniert" mentioned on a special stone called King Doniert's Stone. This stone is a cross shaft from the 800s and stands in a place called St Cleer in Cornwall. The stone doesn't say he was a king, but historians think it's him.
How Did King Donyarth Die?
Old records say that Donyarth drowned in the year 875. We don't know for sure if it was an accident. Some old writings from Ireland suggest his death might have been seen as a punishment. This was because some people thought he worked with the Vikings.
Vikings and King Alfred
The Vikings were a group of people who traveled and raided many lands during that time. They were causing trouble for the West Saxons and even took over Exeter for a short time in 876. However, Alfred the Great, a famous English king, later drove them out. This happened after a victory by Odda, Ealdorman of Devon at the Battle of Cynwit in 878. It's thought that Donyarth might have drowned in the River Fowey, which is close to King Doniert's Stone.
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