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Llanddwyn Island in the Menai Straits was the home of Santes Dwynwen, the patron saint of Welsh lovers, whose romantic day is celebrated each year on the 25th January.
"Nothing wins hearts like cheerfulness" - the words of Dwynwen, one of 24 beautiful daughters of King Brychan Brycheiniog who lived during the fifth century AD.
The beautiful Princess Dwynwen fell in love with a prince, Maelon Dafodrill, but Maelon spurned her love. Heartbroken, Dwynwen retreated to Llanddwyn Island where she saw an apparition whilst looking at eels swimming in a well. The apparition granted her three wishes; for the first wish Dwynwen asked for Maelon to be turned into ice for spurning her love; secondly that she would remain on Llanddwyn for the rest of her days and thirdly that all lovers coming to Llanddwyn would be happy for the rest of their lives.
That is why she is known throughout the country as the patron saint of lovers in Wales. Delightful views on Llanddwyn Island, please click to enlarge then X to close
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