Gurguit Barbtruc facts for kids

Gurguit Barbtruc (in Welsh: Gwrgant Farfdrwch) was a legendary king of the Britons. His story comes from an old book by Geoffrey of Monmouth. Gurguit was the son of King Belinus. He is famous for supposedly helping a group of people find a new home in Ireland.

Who Was Gurguit Barbtruc?

Gurguit Barbtruc was known as a calm and fair ruler. He tried to follow the good examples set by his father and grandfather. As a king, he wanted peace for his people. However, he was also ready to act when needed.

A Peaceful King's Challenge

One day, the king of the Danes stopped paying a special tax, or "tribute," to Gurguit. This tribute was a payment showing respect and loyalty. Gurguit saw this as a challenge to his kingdom. He quickly gathered a large fleet of ships. He then sailed to Denmark and invaded the country. Gurguit defeated the Danish king and made Denmark follow his rules.

Finding a New Home: Ireland

On his way back home, Gurguit saw something interesting. He met a group of thirty ships filled with men and women. These people were called the Basclenses. They were led by a person named Partholoim. The Basclenses had been forced to leave their home in Spain. They were searching for a new land to live in.

Gurguit did not let them settle in Britain. Instead, he offered them the island of Ireland. According to this old story, Ireland was empty at that time. The Basclenses accepted his offer. They settled on the island and became known as the Irish. This part of the story is considered a fun legend, not a historical fact.

Gurguit's Legacy

Gurguit Barbtruc lived a full life and died peacefully. He was buried in the city of Caerleon. This city was first started by his father, Belinus. Gurguit had helped to build it up even more. After Gurguit, his son Guithelin became the new king.