Deanery of Arllechwedd
St Rhychwyn, Llanrhychwyn
Map Reference
Nearest Town
Trefriw
Items of Interest
Described by CADW as the oldest surviving church in Wales.
This little mountain church known as 'Llewelyn's Old Church' is a unique example of primitive architecture. The western end of the south aisle is 11th or 12th century, the eastern end being added in the 13th. The north aisle is 16th century. The timber in the roof, some 800 years old is the earliest example in Wales. The ancient oak door has wooden hinges, and the fine 13th century bell may have come from Maenan Abbey. The square font dates from 11th century or even earlier. The altar rails are 1616, the pulpit 1691. The chalice is dated 1614 and is of an ornate design.
Registers go back to 1594.
The stained glass window depicts Rhychwyn and David; the Latin inscription asks for prayers for the donors of the window, which was placed in position in 1533.
The lych gate is dated 1462, but this has been altered and should actually read 1762.
December 2000 saw the renovation work completed.