Last week, visitors to St Davids Cathedral were treated to a remarkable sight as a giant puppet of Lord Rhys made its way through the city, attracting attention from thousands of people online and in person.
The response was incredible, and many people asked the same question: who was Lord Rhys, and where is he buried?
That inspired us to take a closer look inside St Davids Cathedral.
On a beautiful sunny day, we followed the trail through one of Wales’ most iconic buildings, exploring some of the Cathedral’s most fascinating features along the way. Visitors entering the Cathedral are immediately struck by its unique atmosphere. Sheltered within the valley, the Cathedral often appears unexpectedly as you descend into the city, revealing nearly 900 years of history.
As we walked through the Quire, one feature that caught our attention was the Royal Stall. Richly decorated and reserved for royal visits, it provides a reminder of the Cathedral’s importance throughout Welsh and British history.
Continuing through the Cathedral, we eventually arrived at the tomb of Lord Rhys. Known as Rhys ap Gruffydd, Lord Rhys was one of medieval Wales’ most powerful rulers and a key figure in Welsh history. He is often remembered as a patron of culture and learning and is associated with the early development of what became the National Eisteddfod tradition.
Today, his tomb remains one of the many fascinating stories hidden within the Cathedral’s ancient walls.
Whether you’re interested in Welsh history, architecture, photography, or simply looking for a peaceful place to visit, St Davids Cathedral is well worth exploring. Every visit reveals something new, from intricate carvings and medieval chapels to unexpected details that many visitors walk straight past.
If you’re planning a stay in St Davids, we highly recommend setting aside time to explore the Cathedral and its grounds. On a sunny day especially, the light streaming through the building creates a truly memorable experience.
Have you visited St Davids Cathedral recently? We’d love to hear about your favourite discovery.
Planning a visit to St Davids? Ramsey House is perfectly placed for exploring the Cathedral, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Ramsey Island and all the hidden corners of Britain’s smallest city.
