Explore The Secrets of Welsh History
Welcome to Forgotten Wales, where we bring Welsh history to life, one untold story at a time. From ancient kingdoms and age-old myths, all the way up to present day. This is your gateway to discovering the real Wales that history forgot. Cymru am byth
Discover the Untold Stories of Welsh History
About Me: your Welsh History Guide
Hi, I’m Matt – a proud Welshman, passionate about the rich, untamed history of Wales. I’m 42, happily married, and a father of three. By day, I head up a department at a large financial organisation, but my heart has always belonged to Welsh history. The legends, the battles, the stories… they’ve called to me for as long as I can remember.
This site is my way of sharing that passion with you. Here, you’ll find the real tales of Wales, from ancient kings and fierce rebellions to the coal-streaked grit of the industrial age. I’ve kept it clean, simple, and easy to navigate, so you can lose yourself in Welsh history without distraction.
I hope you enjoy exploring as much as I’ve enjoyed creating it. Cymru am byth!
Matt
Navigating the Website
You’ll find (eventually – depending on when you’re reading this) extensive articles (all backed up with expert quotes and evidence) covering the various era’s of Wales. I will regularly update this home page with easy reference category links for you.
I’ve deliberately kept the home page on the thin side as I just want you to have a quick and easily accessible route to read the subject I’m so passionate about- Welsh history.
You can find links to the following categories below. Go into a link you fancy learning about and you’ll be directed to a natural starting post.
Ancient Welsh Kingdoms (500 BC – 800 AD)
Discover the powerful beginnings of Welsh history. Ancient Welsh kingdoms rose from rugged lands, led by fierce chiefs and legendary warriors. This is where Wales’ story truly begins, in a time of tribal alliances, epic battles, and early dynasties. Unearth the secrets of these ancient kingdoms and meet the leaders who carved their names into Welsh legend. Dive into a world that shaped the very roots of Welsh identity.
Rise of Welsh Kingdoms (800 AD – 1066 AD)
Step into the era when Welsh kingdoms rose in power, shaping the land with fierce rivalries and alliances. This was a time of unbreakable leaders and visionary rulers, each vying for dominance amidst the challenges of Viking raids and Anglo-Saxon threats. Discover the epic stories of unification, law, and warfare that forged Wales’ path. Explore how these early kingdoms battled for control and laid the foundations of Welsh identity and resilience.
Myths And Legends Of Wales (400 AD-1600 AD)
Discover the Myths and Legends of Wales, where ancient tales weave through mist-covered mountains and hidden valleys, revealing heroes, monsters, and mystical realms that have shaped Welsh identity for centuries. From the noble sacrifices of Bran the Blessed to the enchanting, dangerous allure of the Tylwyth Teg fairies, these stories capture the timeless spirit of Wales—a land where history and magic blend seamlessly. Step into this world of Celtic warriors, supernatural beings, and lost kingdoms; each legend is a doorway into the heart of Welsh culture, waiting to inspire, challenge, and captivate.
Medieval Welsh Rebellions (1066 AD – 1415 AD)
The Medieval Welsh Rebellions represent a series of fierce struggles for freedom, spanning from 1066 to 1415 AD. Wales’ determination to resist foreign rule is etched in these rebellions, from the Norman invasion’s harsh impact to the legendary figures like Owain Gwynedd and Llywelyn the Great who led their people with courage. This period reaches its climax with Owain Glyndŵr’s famous revolt, a final, impassioned stand that echoes the Welsh spirit of independence. Dive into the stories of defiance that helped shape Wales, forging a legacy of resilience and pride.
Welsh Pirates and Privateers (14th – 18th Century AD)
The tales of Welsh Pirates and Privateers are brimming with daring escapades, hidden coves, and lawless seas, capturing a wild side of Welsh history that often goes untold. From the early days of sea raiders in the 14th century to the rise of notorious smugglers along the rugged Pembrokeshire coast, Welsh pirates were masters of the Bristol Channel and beyond, seizing ships and carving out their place in maritime lore. Whether as opportunistic privateers under the Tudors or fearless adventurers in the Caribbean, these Welsh pirates weren’t just thieves; they were strategic rebels who challenged both the law and the powers that be. Dive into the secret lives of these Welsh Pirates and Privateers—the hidden hideouts, thrilling conflicts, and legendary voyages—that shaped a coastal rebellion against authority.
Recently Published Welsh History Posts
Early Welsh Pirates: Discover The Origins of Coastal Piracy
In the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries, piracy was widespread along Wales’ western coast, most noticeably in Pembrokeshire. The region’s remoteness from central authority and the participation of people from various backgrounds, including the nobility and fishermen, contributed to its…
the Welsh Pirates History: Discover Secrets of the Coast
Did you know the Golden Age of Piracy lasted from the 1650s to the 1730s? It was split into three periods: Buccaneering, Pirate Round, and Post-Spanish Succession. These periods added to Wales’ rich maritime history. The early Welsh sea raiders…
Owain Glyndwr: The Legendary Rebellion That Inspired a Nation
In the early 15th century, a remarkable figure emerged from the hills of Wales to lead a rebellion that would forever change the course of Welsh history. Owain Glyndwr, born around 1354 into an upper-class Anglo-Welsh family, became the last…
Edward 1 in Wales: The Relentless Conquest That Changed Welsh History Forever
Did you know Edward I, King of England from 1272 to 1307 (known as Longshanks due to his height), had fifteen children with his first wife, Eleanor of Castile? This fact highlights the significant impact of Edward 1 in Wales….
Llywelyn The Great: Rise Of Wales’ Warrior Prince
Llywelyn the Great, also known as Llywelyn ap Iorwerth, was one of the most formidable and enduring rulers in Welsh history, governing as Prince of Gwynedd for nearly 45 years, from 1195 to 1240. His rule during this turbulent rebellion…
Owain Gwynedd: Discover Wales’ Legendary Medieval King
Did you know Owain Gwynedd, the Prince of Gwynedd, ruled Wales for an impressive 33 years from 1137 to 1170 AD? This remarkable feat showcases the strength and stability of his reign during a tumultuous period in Welsh history. Owain…