What is the significance of the gorsedd stones

The National Eisteddfod potted History The National Eisteddfod of Wales can be traced back to when it is said that the first Eisteddfod was held, under the auspices of Lord Rhys, at his castle in Cardigan. There he held a grand gathering to which were invited poets and musicians from all over the country. A chair at the Lord's table was awarded to the best poet and musician, a tradition that prevails in the modern day National Eisteddfod.

Following , many Eisteddfodau were held throughout Wales, under the patronage of Welsh gentry and noblemen. If you would like to get involved and meet like-minded people, why not join the Friends? Although it might look like an ancient monument, it was actually installed in to celebrate Cardiff hosting the Welsh National Eisteddfod. The central table stone was moved from the circle of stones in Gorsedd Gardens to Bute Park, giving it its name. Exciting news - work is underway at Bute Park to create the magical Christmas at Bute Park, a breath-taking festival of light, ahead of its opening on 25th November.

Visitors to the park will notice a lot of activity, including essential tree maintenance. View our latest information and advice on Coronavirus. The Animal Wall. MoRunning 13th November, Workshops and classes. Visitor centre. The Gorsedd's history. In the same way that the Gorsedd emblem has three shafts, the Gorsedd has three orders of merit: The Ovate Order - green robe, which includes the Bardic Ovate, the Musician Ovate and the Literature Ovate.

Membership on passing the first two Gorsedd examinations. Honorary members on the recommendation of the Gorsedd Board in recognition of service to Wales.

Membership of this Order can only be obtained on passing the final Gorsedd examination. Graduates who have been successful in Welsh and Welsh Literature, or Music, in their Final Examination may also apply.

The Druidic Order - white robe. This order is restricted to those honoured by the Gorsedd Board for their substantial contribution to Literature, Music, Scholarship, Science or Arts in Wales.

Green and blue robed members can be elevated to this order. Chief Bards and Prose Medal winners are also accepted to this order. Archdruid Archdderwydd The head of the Gorsedd of the Bards is the Archdruid, who is elected for a term of three years and is responsible for conducting the Gorsedd ceremonies during Eisteddfod week. In he set out a miniature druidic stone circle in Carmarthen for a Gorsedd ceremony coinciding with a regional eisteddfod.

Since then the Gorsedd has been closely connected with eisteddfodau, particularly the National Eisteddfod of Wales, where poets, performers and other artists compete each August. Stone circles like this one were established at each town visited by the National Eisteddfod until , when transportable plastic replica stones were introduced to save cost.

There is more about her on our page about the canal boat house near her home.