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THE WELSH NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD
The Eisteddfod is the most cherished Welsh cultural event; literally a 'session' of bards competing in composing poetry. It is held at a different venue each year.
To win and Eisteddfod Chair: a poem (awdl) is written in 24 strict Welsh measures.
To win and Eisteddfod Crown: a poem (pryddest) is written in a free meter style.
The first important public Eisteddfod was that held by Lord Rhys in Cardigan Castle in 1176. It was revived on a large scale by Edward Williams (Iolo Morganwg) in the early 19th century.
Eisteddfodau were held where ever Welsh people came together in other countries, including Patagonia and Australia.
The Eisteddfod Today
There are many local events through-out Wales and most festivals now include music, singing, dance, art and craft as well as traditional poetry.
The Urdd Eisteddfod caters for young people.The Llangollen International Eisteddfod draws competitors from all over the world.
This being the day on which the autumnal equinox occurred, some Welsh bards, resident in London, assembled in congress on Primrose Hill, according to ancient usage. Present at the meeting was Edward Jones who had published his "The Musical and Poetical Reelicks of the Welsh Bards" in 1784 in a belated effort to try to preserve the native Welsh traditions being so ruthlessly stamped out by the new breed of Methodists.
The Gentleman's Magazine, October, 1792
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