Born: c. 1100
Died: 1136 (Kidwelly Castle, Wales)
Biography:
Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd (c. 1100 – 1136) was a Welsh princess and the Princess Consort of Deheubarth in Wales. She was married to Gruffydd ap Rhys, the Prince of Deheubarth. Gwenllian was born into the princely Aberffraw family of Gwynedd, as the daughter of Gruffudd ap Cynan, the Prince of Gwynedd, and his wife, Angharad ferch Owain.
Gwenllian’s early life was spent at the family seat in Aberffraw on Ynys Môn (Anglesey). She was the youngest of eight children, with four older sisters, Mared, Rhiannell, Susanna, and Annest, and three older brothers, Cadwallon, Owain, and Cadwaladr. Gwenllian was known for her striking beauty and grew up in a noble and influential family. She was also a descendant of Brian Bóruma mac Cennétig, the High King of Ireland.
In 1113, Gruffydd ap Rhys traveled to Gwynedd to meet Gwenllian’s father. It was during this visit that Gwenllian and Gruffydd fell in love and eloped. Shortly after, they were married, and Gwenllian became the Princess Consort of Deheubarth.
Gwenllian and Gruffydd had several children together, including Morgan ap Gruffydd, Maelgwyn ap Gruffydd, Gwladus ferch Gruffydd, Nest ferch Gruffydd, Owain ap Gruffydd, Maredudd ap Gruffydd, Rhys Fychan ap Gruffydd, and Sion ap Gruffydd.
During their time together, Gwenllian and Gruffydd faced ongoing struggles against the Norman invasion in South Wales. Norman, English, and Flemish colonists had established footholds in Deheubarth, and the Welsh princely family constantly had to defend their lands. Gwenllian stood by her husband’s side as they led retaliatory strikes, often referred to as lightning raids, against the Norman-held positions.
In 1136, an opportunity arose for the Welsh to reclaim their lost lands from the Marcher Lords. This opportunity came about due to the conflict known as the Anarchy that erupted in England when Stephen de Blois displaced his cousin, Empress Matilda, from the English throne. Taking advantage of the power vacuum, Gwenllian’s family and other Welsh leaders initiated the Great Revolt of 1136.
Gwenllian played a significant role in the revolt, leading her own troops into battle. She became known for her fierce determination and bravery, often depicted in artistic depictions with a sword in hand or riding a chariot into battle like Boudicca. However, Gwenllian’s rebellion eventually led to her tragic death. She was killed in battle at Kidwelly Castle, an event that further fueled the revolt.
Gwenllian’s patriotic revolt and her sacrifice for her people became a symbol of resistance in Welsh history. Her story inspired others to continue the fight against the Norman invaders, and her legacy contributed to the eventual independence of Wales.