The 9 Best Churches & Cathedrals in Caernarfon, Wales

Reviewed By Jilly2903 - Llan Ffestiniog, United Kingdom

Last Wednesday, Hubby and me enjoyed a walk around the quiet (tourist season over) village of Beddgelert. We were pleased to find this historical church open. It is a Grade 2 listed building - a medieval Augustinian priory church founded in the 13th century. However, an earlier Celtic Christian community worshipped on this site in the 6th/7th century. The church was destroyed by fire several times. In the middle ages, it was restored thanks to the support of Prince Llewelyn the Great. It also underwent major repairs during the Victorian era. As we entered, on the left we saw a stone font and part of a medieval doorway which is now a small window glazed with stained glass depicting St. Mary and St. David. There were 2 impressive stone arches leading to the smaller Lady Chapel. We walked up the chancel steps and admired the 3 narrow arched windows built around 1230 using Anglesey gristone. The colourful stained-glass illustrates the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. There were a lot of fixtures and fittings made of carved dark oak. I liked the lecturn in the shape of an eagle. The chancel gates were interesting. Each side panel showed the symbols of the 4 Evangelists:- Matthew (winged man), Mark (winged lion), Luke (winged ox) and John (winged eagle). On top of the rood screen/partition, I saw a golden image of Jesus Christ sitting on a throne wearing a crown and holding a sceptre. There were 2 angels on either side of him carrying incense burners. Immediately above this, Christ is shown nailed to the cross with the Virgin Mary and St. John by his side. We lit a candle, said a prayer for our lost loved ones, made a donation and then went outside to explore the churchyard. Under the shadow of a huge yew tree is one of the oldest gravestones (dated 1672) commemorating members of the wealthy Wynn family who lived at nearby Ty Isaf Farmhouse (now a National Trust shop). If you visit this church, I recommend you pick up a free leaflet from the entrance table which gives a brief historical guide and outlines a short tour of the interesting features.