St Illtyd's Church, Llantwit Major, United Kingdom

St Illtyd's Church is located at the site of the oldest college in the United Kingdom, Cor Tewdws, which was founded c. 395 AD in honour of the Roman Emperor Theodosius I. It was refounded by St. Illtud c. 508 AD, from whom it derives its name. The current church building was built in the 11th century by the Normans, with portions being rebuilt in the 13th and 15th centuries. The church building is one of the oldest and best-known parish churches in Wales. It is a grade I listed building, or building of exceptional interest, and has been called both the 'Westminster Abbey of Wales' for its unique collection of carved stones and effigies, and 'the most beautiful church in Wales.'

References:

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Religious sites in United Kingdom

User Reviews

Jason Kavanagh (13 months ago)
The home of Celtic Christianity, worshiped here since 500 AD

Michael Burnett (2 years ago)
Beautiful peaceful place to visit , lot's of history and the Celtic cross stones are a must see

R. Mahan (2 years ago)
An atmospheric churchyard that sits on the remains of one of the first celtic collages of christianity. Interestingly, this site is where Saint Patrick and Saint David were educated. Church features a small museum like room that holds ancient standing marker stones that commemorate Welsh Kings of old. Adjacent to the churchyard is a small memorial garden that is surrounded by a small brook. A must see if in the area.

David Morgan (2 years ago)
Dates back to the year 500. Founded by St Illtud himself.

sheena scrafton (2 years ago)
If you love history you need to go. Lovely new museum

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Göran Höglund (Kartläsarn)

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