Morgan ab Athrwys facts for kids

Morgan ap Athrwys was a powerful king in southeast Wales around the year 730. He was also known as Morgan Mwynfawr, which means 'Morgan the Generous'. He ruled over the kingdoms of Gwent and Glywysing, which later became known as Morgannwg. Today, this area is part of modern Glamorgan. Morgan was the grandson of King Meurig ap Tewdrig and the son of Athrwys ap Meurig.

Who Was Morgan Mwynfawr?

Morgan ap Athrwys was a significant ruler in early medieval Wales. He inherited his power from his grandfather, King Meurig. Historians believe that the name of the kingdom, Morgannwg, might have come from his name. Another possibility is that it was named after a later descendant, Morgan the Old. Morgan Mwynfawr's grandmother, Onbraus ferch Gwrgant Mawr, may have also given him a claim to the kingdom of Ergyng.

Ruling Ancient Wales

Morgan ruled a large area between the River Loughor and the River Wye. This included lands in Gower, Glamorgan, and Gwent. His descendants continued to rule these areas after him. This shows how important his reign was for the region.

Important Records: The Book of Llandaff

Much of what we know about Morgan comes from old documents called Book of Llandaff. This book contains many important records, including details about land grants. Morgan is said to have given land to the church of Llandaff. These gifts happened during the time of Bishops Oudoceus and Berthguin.

The Book of Llandaff also mentions some serious events involving Morgan. It describes how Bishop Oudoceus took legal action against him. This was due to a dispute involving Morgan's uncle, Ffriog. Even though the Book of Llandaff was put together much later, around the 1100s, it still contains valuable old information. Historians generally trust its overall picture of Morgan's time.

Morgan was likely succeeded by his son, Ithel. After Ithel, his many sons divided the kingdom among themselves.