What is "tanwg"

Saint Tanwg is the patron saint of Llandanwg, Gwynedd, Wales. He is presumed to be the founder of the small church at Llandanwg. The church is medieval, probably dating from the 13th century, however there are two inscribed stones, one built into the lintel of the east window, dated from the 5th century, the second is a rough, pillar stone, inscribed with Roman capitals. These are an unusual formula, used in the 4th century in Italy and Gaul. which indicates much earlier activity, and it has probably been a place of worship from the early 5th century. The parish church of Harlech, which was built in 1840 to replace that of Llandanwg is also dedicated to Saint Tanwg.

Saint Tanwg is said to have been the son of Ithel the Generous of Armorica.

According to Enwogion Cymru, Tanwg was 'a saint who lived in the early part of the sixth century. He was one of the sons of Ithel Hael and he accompanied St Cadvan from Armorica to Britain in the time of Vortigern "who procured wise men and divines from Gaul, now called France, to renovate Christianity in this Island, in consequence of the decay and failure that had befallen the faith in Christ".

He was a member of the college of Bardsey and he founded the church of Llandanwg in Ardudwy Merionethshire in which parish is situated the town of Harlech. He was the brother of Baglan, Trillo, Tegai, Twrog, Tecwyn, Gredifael, Flewyn and Llechid, and was commemorated 10 October.