Rhydderch Hael facts for kids

Rhydderch Hael (pronounced RID-erkh HYL), also known as Rhydderch the Generous, was a powerful king of Alt Clut. This was a Brittonic kingdom in a part of Britain called the "Old North" (or Hen Ogledd). He lived around the year 580 to about 614. Rhydderch was one of the most famous kings from this time and place. You can find his name in many old stories and writings from the Middle Ages, written in both Welsh and Latin.

Clochoderick rocking stone in Renfrewshire, Scotland. People say this stone marks where Rhydderch is buried.

Stories from History

A Prophecy from Saint Columba

Rhydderch Hael is mentioned in a book called Vita Sancti Columbae (which means Life of Saint Columba). This book was written around the year 700 by a person named Adomnán. In the story, King Rhydderch sends a secret message to Saint Columba. He asks the saint to tell him how he will die. The king was worried he might be killed by his enemies. But Saint Columba told him he would die peacefully at home in his own bed. People believe this part of the story is true. Adomnán wrote it when Rhydderch's life was still well-remembered.

Fighting Against Enemies

In another old book, the Historia Brittonum (written in the 800s), Rhydderch is named as one of four Brittonic kings. These kings fought against a ruler named Hussa of Bernicia. It's thought that these kings might have worked together as an alliance. This means they joined forces to fight a common enemy. If they did fight together, Rhydderch might have been part of a famous battle called the siege of Ynys Metcaut.

The Battle of Arfderydd

Rhydderch might also have been the leader of the winning army at the Battle of Arfderydd. This battle happened in the year 573. Old records mention the battle but don't always say who fought in it. Some historians believe Rhydderch led the victorious side.

Amazing Legends

Rhydderch and Saint Kentigern

In the Life of Saint Kentigern, Rhydderch is shown as a supporter of the saint. Saint Kentigern is also known as Saint Mungo. This story connects Rhydderch to the founding of the city of Glasgow. One famous legend tells how Saint Kentigern helped Queen Languoreth. She had lost a ring that her husband, King Rhydderch, had given her. The ring was found inside a salmon! This story is so famous that the coat of arms of Glasgow still shows a salmon with a ring in its mouth.

The Magical Sword Dyrnwyn

Rhydderch also appears in old Welsh stories called the Welsh Triads. These stories suggest he was part of many adventures that are now mostly lost. He is known as the owner of one of the Thirteen Treasures of the Island of Britain. This treasure was a magical sword called Dyrnwyn (which means 'white-hilt'). The stories say that if a brave and noble person pulled the sword from its scabbard, it would burst into flames from the handle to the tip! Rhydderch was called "the Generous" because he would let anyone who asked use the sword. But because of its fiery nature, most people would give it back!