St Mary and Bodfan

St Mary and Bodfan is a medieval church in Barmouth with three aisles separated by cylindrical columns decorated with floral motifs. Five pointed arcades divide the interior spaces.

The church was founded in 1201 under the patronage of Hywel ap Meredydd ap Cynan, a relative of Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great. It arose during an era when Welsh rulers commissioned important religious buildings.

The church has served Barmouth residents as a center for worship and major life events across generations. It remains integral to the community's religious and social fabric.

Entry to the church grounds is through a stone gabled lychgate leading into a spacious graveyard. The graveyard is enclosed by traditional stone walls that define the site.

Two early medieval stones with ancient inscriptions rest in the northwest corner, including the Calixtus Stone that once served as a footbridge. These stones reveal early Christian presence at the site.

Location: Barmouth

Inception: 13 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Elevation above the sea: 24 m

Website: http://barmouth.church

GPS coordinates: 52.74166,-4.07630

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46