The area
The church is situated in the centre of the village of Llanddew, and serves not only the village itself but the wider community. Only 2 miles from Brecon, it attracts many visitors. It is the oldest church in the former county of Brecknockshire with its historic links to Giraldus Cambrensis (Gerald of Wales) who was Archdeacon of Brecon from 1175 until 1203AD.
The church
The present church is a massive structure of the thirteenth century and is Cruciform in shape, with a central tower and lancet windows, it is built of grey and red sandstone rubble. Though much restored it still contains original work.
Llanddew was a “clas” church, that is a mother church with monastic buildings. This was a peculiarly Celtic idea where a community of canons lived in cells (marriage was permitted) and worshipped together under a common code of rules. They went out to preach and celebrate communion locally under a cross in the open air. This practice probably ceased about 1170 A.D.
Extract taken from Church booklet written by Mrs Ursula Jepson with Illustrations by Mrs Ruth Miles
For more information on the church Click here Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust – Projects – Longer – Historic Churches – Brecknockshire Churches Survey – Llanddew
Churchwarden and Ministry Area Council Member
Churchwardens: Mr Viv Jones Tel: 01874 62396 and
Mrs Rowena Akinyemi Tel: 01874 409054
Ministry Area Council Member: Mr Paul Calderwood Tel: 01874 665210
Location
Post code for Sat Nav LD3 9ST