Maredudd ap Rhys Gryg facts for kids

Maredudd ap Rhys Grug (died 1271) was an important Welsh prince. He was the son of Rhys Gryg, who was also a Welsh prince from a region called Deheubarth. His mother was Mathilde de Clare. Her father, Richard de Clare, was a powerful lord who controlled lands near the border of Wales, like Cardigan.

Maredudd first ruled an area in north-east Ystrad Tywi. This included Llandovery Castle. Later, he expanded his lands to control the region around Dryslwyn Castle.

When Maredudd's father died in 1234, Maredudd was still young. A powerful nobleman named Gilbert Marshal, 4th Earl of Pembroke became his guardian. This meant Gilbert looked after Maredudd and his lands until he was old enough. Their mothers were distant cousins. In 1241, Maredudd married Gilbert's niece, Isobella. This marriage was likely planned a long time before.

Maredudd ap Rhys Gryg passed away at Dryslwyn on 27 July 1271. He had a son named Rhys ap Maredudd. Maredudd was buried at Whitland Abbey.

Maredudd's Life and Challenges

Leaving Home

Around 1250, Maredudd had to leave his home in the south of Wales. This happened because of disagreements with his brother and his nephew, Rhys Mechyll and Rhys Fychan ap Rhys Mechyll.

He went to Gwynedd, a kingdom in North Wales. There, he joined Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, a very strong Welsh leader. Maredudd helped Llywelyn in his successful battles in 1256. As a reward, Llywelyn gave Maredudd land around Llanbadarn and Cantref Buellt.

Changing Sides

Maredudd played a big part in the Battle of Cymerau in 1257. The Welsh side won this battle. However, Maredudd's nephew, Rhys Fychan, also fought with the Welsh. This caused more problems for Maredudd.

In 1258, Maredudd promised to be loyal to Llywelyn. But later that same year, he changed his mind and sided with King Henry III of England.

Facing a Trial

Because he changed his loyalty, Maredudd was put on trial on 28 May 1259. This was a very important event, as it was the first trial of its kind in Wales. A group of Welsh lords found him guilty. He was then held in Criccieth Castle.

In 1261, Maredudd and Llywelyn made peace. However, Maredudd still had to show loyalty to the English king. This was confirmed in 1267, after a peace agreement called the Peace of Montgomery. Later, in 1270, Maredudd finally showed his loyalty to Llywelyn again.