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Sandy Water Park
Residents' Association, Llanelli
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This Association is now dissolved
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The Gorsedd Stones
The Gorsedd Stones ( Cerrig yr Orsedd ) are the circle of standing stones on the southern shore of the Sandy Water Park lake.
Gorsedd translates as 'alter' in English.
Gorsedd Stones can be found throughout Wales and are erected for the National Eisteddfod of Wales. They form an integral part of the druidic ceremonies of the Eisteddfod and are the hallmark of the Eisteddfod visiting a community.
These stones were last used in the year 2000 and will be used again in August 2014. Each stone structure is arranged in a circular formation consisting of twelve standing stones, representing the Welsh counties and a large formation of flat topped stones in the centre known as the Logan Stone.
As well as commemorating the National Eisteddfod, the Gorsedd Stones continue to provide an important ceremonial venue for the proclamation of future National Eisteddfodau which according to tradition must be completed one year and one day prior to its official opening. The ceremony is conducted by the Archdruid of the Gorsedd of Bards who formally announces the particulars of the proposed venue. During the proceedings the Archdruid stands upon the Logan Stone, facing him, to the east cardinal point, is the Stone of the Covenant where the Herald Bard stands, and behind this are the Portal Stones that are guarded by Eisteddfod officials. The portal stone to the right of the entrance, points to midsummer sunrise, while that to the left indicates the midwinter sunrise.
The National Eisteddfod potted History
The National Eisteddfod of Wales can be traced back to 1176 when it is said that the first Eisteddfod was held, under the auspices of Lord Rhys, at his castle in Cardigan. There he held a grand gathering to which were invited poets and musicians from all over the country. A chair at the Lord's table was awarded to the best poet and musician, a tradition that prevails in the modern day National Eisteddfod.
Following 1176, many Eisteddfodau were held throughout Wales, under the patronage of Welsh gentry and noblemen. At the beginning of the nineteenth century, an Eisteddfod of historical significance was held at the Ivy Bush Inn in Carmarthen, when the Gorsedd of Bards first became officially associated with this national event. By this time, the Eisteddfod had developed in to a fully-fledged folk festival on a large scale.
by Rod James
Image by Tony Rees
Image by Tony Rees
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