All Saints' Church, Llangar

All Saints' Church in Llangar is a rectangular stone building set on a terrace where the rivers Dee and Alwen meet, with a continuous nave and chancel design. The structure displays elements from different building periods, with medieval core work and later additions still visible.

The church is first documented in 1291, indicating its medieval origins, while extensive reconstruction in the 15th century shaped its current form. Further changes between 1615 and 1620 added new elements before the building's path took a different direction.

The walls display multiple layers of medieval paintings, including images of the seven deadly sins and text in Welsh. These painted messages show how worshippers engaged with moral teachings in their own language.

Access to the church is not open to the public and requires advance arrangement with Cadw staff at nearby Rug Chapel. Planning your visit in advance is essential since you cannot simply drop by without permission.

The church's abandonment in 1856 preserved original 18th-century furnishings like box pews and a gallery that were lost in many other churches through later changes. This preservation offers a rare view of how churches were furnished during that period.

Location: Cynwyd

Inception: 1291

Elevation above the sea: 147.5 m

GPS coordinates: 52.97120,-3.39592

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:43