St. Dyfnog Church, Llanrhaeadr
Details
According to the church website:
There has been a church on this site since the sixth century. The oldest part of the church as it now stands is the tower, which dates from the thirteenth century; the body of the church is from the fifteenth century, and is of a pattern frequently found in this part of the country, the nave being in two equal portions – eglwys dwbl. It was probably built and decorated with offerings from the pilgrims to the well. Records show that at one time the roof was thatched and the walls white-washed. It is possible to trace vicars of Llanrhaeadr back to 1522 (eleven years before the installation of the Jesse window).
According to Wikipedia:
Saint Dyfnog chose to settle in an isolated wooded area with a spring-fed stream. The stream had a waterfall; legend has it that because Saint Dyfnog would stand in the cold waters for extended periods doing penance, clad in a hairshirt with a chain belt of iron; this was the reasoning for its curative powers. Over time, the stream became known as Ffynnon Dyfnog or Dyfnog’s well.
As devotion to the saint increased, the waters became known for their healing powers. Many pilgrims came to bathe in the waters and pray, hoping to be cured of their ailments. The waters of the well were reputed to be especially effective for skin conditions, arthritis and rheumatism. Those seeking relief for their illnesses would leave a donation to be used for the upkeep of the well and the church. Saint Dyfnog’s Well was one of the most visited holy wells; because of the offerings from the well, St Dyfnog’s was able to buy the elaborate 16th century Tree of Jesse window. The site appears to have been at the height of its popularity from the 16th to the 18th century. The sunken stone bath dates from the 16th or 17th century. The bottom of the stone bath is said to have been lined with marble at one time.
Further information may be found on the following links: