Gorsedd Cymru

What it is

This society brings together poets, writers, and musicians who contribute to Welsh culture. Its main goal is to honour these individuals and support their creative fields. The group also keeps strong ties with other Celtic countries and the Welsh community in Patagonia. While it was once known as the Gorsedd of the Bards of Britain, it changed its name in 2019 to better reflect its modern role. This change aimed to include more than just bards, though some historians felt it erased centuries of history.

Origins and history

Edward Williams, known as Iolo Morganwg, revived the Gorsedd in 1792. He based the new rituals on supposed ancient Celtic Druid practices. Later scholars confirmed these origins were largely fictional inventions. The first official meeting happened at an eisteddfod in Carmarthen in 1819. The rituals have since absorbed Christian influences and were updated in the 1930s by Archdruid Cynan. Today, the group operates under the leadership of an Archdruid elected for a three-year term.

How it is kept

Members wear coloured robes to signify their contributions. Green represents spring, blue signifies the season, and white stands for sanctity. Since 2012, all new members are called druids, with robe colours reflecting their specific field rather than rank. The head of the group wears gold. Ceremonies take place outdoors around a circle of standing stones, or indoors if weather prevents it. The Archdruid leads these events, using symbols like a sheathed sword and a ceremonial horn to mark the proceedings.

Symbols and objects

The group uses a triple-line symbol representing love, justice, and truth. This mark appears on banners, certificates, and awards. A silver trumpet called the Corn Gwlad calls people together from four directions. Another object is the Corn Hirlas, a long blue horn presented to the Archdruid. The Grand Sword remains sheathed but is partially drawn during ceremonies while peace is proclaimed. These items create a solemn atmosphere for awarding literary prizes.

Admission and ranks

New members join by passing Welsh language examinations or by nomination. Existing druids must nominate new druids. Many adopt bardic names upon joining. To become Archdruid, one must win major eisteddfod awards like the Crown or Chair. Notable figures like Queen Elizabeth II have been inducted, though rules now require Welsh fluency. Recent inductees include politicians and actors who support Welsh culture. The society continues to grow by recognising those who keep the language alive.

How Gorsedd Cymru is kept

The society gathers annually during the National Eisteddfod. Members wear green, blue, or white robes depending on their contribution. An Archdruid leads ceremonies around a stone circle. They use a silver trumpet to summon attendees. A sheathed sword is partially drawn while peace is called. Awards for poetry and prose are presented. New members are inducted after passing language tests or receiving nominations. The rituals blend invented ancient traditions with modern literary celebration.

When and where

It occurs every year during the National Eisteddfod of Wales. The festival moves to different locations each time. Ceremonies happen both outdoors and inside pavilions depending on weather conditions.

The headquarters is in Wales. Major ceremonies take place at the National Eisteddfod site. The group has historical connections to Cardiff and Liverpool. It also maintains relationships with Celtic nations and the Welsh settlement in Patagonia.

What Gorsedd Cymru means

The rituals honour the Welsh language and literary arts. The triple-line symbol represents love, justice, and truth. The sheathed sword symbolises peace and protection of culture. The trumpet calls the community together. Robe colours connect members to nature and seasons. The entire practice celebrates creativity and linguistic heritage.

Questions people ask about Gorsedd Cymru

See also

ChristmasA festival of Jesus's birth, kept on 25 December with gifts, lights and shared mealsValentine's DayA Christian feast day and cultural celebration of love kept on February 14 in many countries.Trick-or-treatingA custom where children visit homes in costume to ask for treats or face a playful prank.PicnicA meal taken outdoors in a park or scenic spot, often shared with friends and family.

Good reading and sources

• Eisteddfod names Christine James first woman archdruidBBC, Article
• BBC Wales - Eisteddfod - GuideBBC, Article
• Eisteddfod names Christine James first woman archdruidBBC, Article
• BBC Wales - Eisteddfod - GuideBBC, Article

• Gorsedd Cymru on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.