St Cwyfan’s Church

Eglwys Cwyfan, or St Cwyfan's Church, holds a Grade II*-listed status as a medieval church situated in Llangadwaladr, Anglesey, Wales. Nestled on the petite tidal island of Cribinau, this historical edifice hails from the 12th century, bearing witness to renovations in the 19th century.

History and Architecture

Origins and Dedication: Established in the 12th century, Eglwys Cwyfan is a tribute to Saint Kevin, the founder of the monastery at Glendalough in County Wicklow, Ireland. Initially, the church marked the terminus of a peninsula that stretched between two bays, Porth Cwyfan and Porth China.

Transformation into an Island: Over time, the relentless action of the sea eroded the coast surrounding the two bays, isolating the peninsula and transforming Cribinau into a small tidal island. This change prompted the construction of a causeway, providing the local population access to the church.

Clerical Controversy: In 1766, the Bishop of Bangor's appointment of Thomas Bowles, a non-Welsh speaking priest, to St Cwyfan's Church in Trefdraeth sparked outrage among the congregation. With only five out of 500 church-goers comprehending English, the appointment led to protests and a court hearing in 1773, culminating in a ruling favoring Welsh-speaking priests in predominantly Welsh-speaking parishes.

Erosion and Restoration: The encroaching waves continued their assault on Cribinau until the late 19th century, leading to the collapse of graves into the sea and the subsequent deterioration of the church. The walls turned disused and roofless, and a replacement church was constructed inland in Llangwyfan. The original church's fate took a positive turn in 1893 when local architect Harold Hughes spearheaded a campaign to rescue it. Funds were raised for the erection of a seawall around Cribinau and the restoration of the building, preserving this vital piece of Welsh heritage.

Eglwys Cwyfan stands today as a symbol of historical resilience, architectural beauty, and cultural significance. Its journey from a peninsula to a tidal island, along with its social and ecclesiastical history, adds rich layers to its tale, making it a cherished landmark in Anglesey, Wales.