Gelert's Grave Beddgelert Snowdonia

Images of Britain: Gelert's Grave, Beddgelert, Snowdonia, Wales

Gelert's Grave, Wales. — Gelert's Grave, Beddgelert, Wales

The Snowdonian village of Beddgelert, a collection of stone houses, inns and hotels surrounded by some of the finest alpine scenery in north Wales, is the location of the grave of the most famous dog in Wales.

According to legend, a stone cairn in a field south of the village marks the resting place of "Gelert", the faithful hound of medieval Welsh prince Llewelyn the Great.

One day Llewelyn was out hunting with his wife, leaving their baby son with a nurse. When Llewelyn returned, Gelert came running out of their lodge covered in blood. Thinking the dog had killed his child, he immediately slew it, only to discover his baby alive. The blood on Gelert was from a huge wolf that he had defended the child from and killed.

Overwhelmed with grief and remorse, Llywelyn buried Gelert with great sorrow.

Gelert's Grave, located near the River Colwyn in Beddgelert, is marked by a simple stone monument with a plaque recounting the tale of Gelert. The site has become a popular destination for tourists and dog lovers, and it has contributed to the enduring appeal of the legend.