Myths and Legends of Wales – Y Ddraig Goch and St David

The legends and myths of Wales are so numerous it would take years to tell all the stories. All the legends and myths have been told through the centuries by one generation to the next, and without question bits have been added to the stories, and some bits taken away. But what remains consistent is all the legends and myths have there base in history and fact. It is this history and fact that makes the stories so much a part of the Welsh culture, and gives it a proud and unique heritage to stand upon. It is here that we shall begin sharing snippets of this wondrous and magnificent oral and written tradition.

The Red Dragon (Y Ddraig Goch)

The red dragon has long been an emblem associated with the country of Wales. It is the mark of bravery and victory, and has been a symbol for the Welsh people since the Middle Ages. The dragon graces shields and standards and is part of many families crest or coat of arms.

When King Henry VII was crowed as the King of England in 1485, it is said that he ordered the Red Dragon become part of the official flag of the principality of Wales. And the Welsh are fiercely proud of their Dragon. ‘Y Ddraig Goch a ddyry Gychwyn’ – the Red Dragon will show the way. And he most certainly has!

The Legend of St. David

St. David grew up in Ceredigion and kept company with monk, learning their ways and the Bible. David learned at the hand of a blind teacher named Paulinus, and it was due to this teacher that David discovered his gift for helping people. He laid his hands over the eyes of the teacher and restored his sight. David then began to travel throughout Wales, sharing his gift.

It is said that while David was speaking to a flock of the faithful, he was not able to be heard or seen by all who had come to listen. and because of this problem the ground rose up and lifted him to heights where he could be seen and heard by all.

God came to David and told him to build a monastery in the Glyn Rhoysn valley. This today is where St. David’s Cathedral (also known as the smallest city in Europe) is located, on the grounds of the old monastery.

St David is the Patron saint of Wales and her people and he died on March I. This is St. David’s day in Wales and is celebrated every year. This is celebrated every year as the national day of thanksgiving, and is traditionally signified by women wearing a daffodil and the men wearing a leek, both which are Welsh National symbols.