Elisedd ap Gwylog facts for kids

Elisedd ap Gwylog (died around 755 AD), also known as Elise, was an important king of Powys. Powys was a kingdom located in eastern Wales. Elisedd was the son of Gwylog ap Beli.

Elisedd's Reign and Achievements

Not much information about King Elisedd has survived from old records. However, we know he was a significant ruler. He is remembered for taking back control of Powys. This land had been taken over by the English. Elisedd's actions helped to make Powys strong again.

The Pillar of Eliseg

Centuries after Elisedd's time, his great-grandson, Cyngen ap Cadell, built a special stone pillar. This pillar was made to remember Elisedd and his achievements. It stands near where the Valle Crucis Abbey was built much later. Today, this monument is known as the Pillar of Eliseg. The name "Eliseg" on the pillar is thought to be a small mistake by the person who carved the stone.

What the Pillar Says

The Latin writing on the Pillar of Eliseg is very old and hard to read now. But a long time ago, a scholar named Edward Lhuyd copied it down when it was clearer. The part of the inscription that talks about Elisedd says:

• "Concenn son of Catell, Catell son of Brochmail, Brochmail son of Eliseg, Eliseg son of Guoillauc." This shows Elisedd's family line.
• "And that Concenn, great-grandson of Eliseg, erected this stone for his great-grandfather Eliseg." This explains why the pillar was built.
• "The same Eliseg, who joined together the inheritance of Powys . . . out of the power of the Angles with his sword and with fire." This tells us how Elisedd fought to get Powys back from the Angles (another name for the English).
• "Whosoever repeats the writing, let him give a blessing on the soul of Eliseg." This asks people to remember Elisedd kindly.

Royal Treasures of Powys

Some very old poems mention King Elisedd and describe special items he owned. These included a "special crown," a "chain of twisted gold links," and "armlets and anklets of gold." These golden items were symbols of his power as the ruler of Powys. Over time, these treasures disappeared from history. However, some people believe they might have been seen again briefly in 1400. This was during the coronation of Owain Glyndŵr, another famous Welsh leader.

Elisedd's Successor

After King Elisedd passed away, his son, Brochfael ap Elisedd, became the next ruler of Powys.