Itinerarium Cambriae facts for kids
The Itinerarium Cambriae (say: It-in-er-AY-ree-um CAM-bree-ay) is a famous book from the Middle Ages. Its name means "The Itinerary Through Wales" in Latin. It tells the story of a journey through Wales that happened in the year 1188.
The book was written by a man named Gerald of Wales. He was chosen to travel with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Baldwin of Forde. Their main goal was to encourage people in Wales to join the Third Crusade. This was a big military expedition to the Middle East.
Contents
What is the Itinerarium Cambriae?
The Itinerarium Cambriae was written in 1191. It is a very important historical document. It gives us a look at what life was like in Wales during the 1100s. Gerald described both the Welsh people and the Normans who lived there.
Why is This Book Important?
Even though Gerald had his own opinions, his book helps us understand the culture and customs of Wales back then. He wrote about the land, the people, and their traditions. It's like a snapshot of history.
Gerald of Wales: The Author
Gerald of Wales was a well-educated writer and churchman. He was known for his unique writing style. He also wrote another book about Wales called Descriptio Cambriae in 1194.
Gerald tried to be fair in his writings. He once told the Pope that he came from both Welsh princes and Norman barons. He said he hated injustice no matter which group it came from. This shows he tried to be balanced in his views.
Where Can You Find the Book?
Original copies of the Itinerarium Cambriae are very old manuscripts. You can find them in important libraries today. These include the British Library, the Bodleian Library, and the University Library in Cambridge. Some of these old books have beautiful, large, colored letters at the start of their sections.
The Itinerarium Cambriae in Other Stories
The Itinerarium Cambriae has even appeared in other books. For example, in Thomas Love Peacock's novel Crotchet Castle (written in 1831), one character wants to follow the same journey that Gerald of Wales took.
