More than a thousand years of history
The history of the churches in the Upper Teifi Valley extends back into the early medieval period, a time when little is known for certain about the Church that existed in Wales. According to the Life of St David, written in the late eleventh century, Llanddewi Brefi was the site of the synod at which St David preached and was confirmed archbishop of Wales, but only glimpses of the life and times of David and other religious figures of the period can be ascertained from these medieval writings.
While few of the churches can be dated to a period before the eleventh century, the circular churchyards, early medieval inscribed stones and ancient yew trees are suggestive of a long history of faith in Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire.
Medieval churches populated the Upper Teifi Valley and the Cistercian abbey of Strata Florida dominated the area and owned a number of these churches. Impressive medieval towers at Tregaron and Llanddewi Brefi date to the fourteenth century, and those at Llanybydder and Llanwenog date to the fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries.
The area played a central part in the religious revivals of the eighteenth century. The chapel at Abermeurig was first built in 1698, a time when Presbyterians were forced to meet in secret. The great Methodist preacher Daniel Rowland was a curate at Llangeitho from the mid-eighteenth century and thousands flocked to hear him preach.
Art and architecture
The Anglican Church flourished again in the nineteenth century, when churches were built, rebuilt, restored and furnished. Some of the churches that continue in use today are rich in stained glass, and stone and wood carving.
Twenty-two churches in the Lampeter Ministry Area are located in and around the Upper Teifi Valley, and all have their stories to tell. Some have connections with other chapels and historic sites.
From unknown medieval carvers to the work of English architects, a Belgian émigré and Welsh and Irish stained glass artists, a wealth of art of all kinds awaits you.
On foot, by bike or by car – come and visit churches on the Teifi Faith Trail.