EP33 St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers: The dark history of Wales’ patron saint of love, the folklore of Ynys Llanddwyn - the ’Island of Love’, and how to celebrate Dydd Santes Dwynwen

St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers and the 'island of love'

According to the legend, the life of fifth-century saint St Dwynen was far from easy.

She is said to have forsaken love for herself in order to bring it to others, and was granted wished by angels, and a magic potion, in order to make it happen from a church off the coast of Anglesey. 

Join Mark Rees (author of Ghosts of Wales) as he investigates her former home and site of pilgrimage on the island of Ynys Llanddwyn, and how she is celebrated annually on January 25.

So never mind St Valentine's Day - celebrate Dydd Santes Dwynen!

What is the Ghosts & Folklore of Wales with Mark Rees podcast?

In early 2020, Mark Rees launched the world’s first podcast dedicated to Welsh ghost stories, folklore, myths and legends.

By combining his unique research and insights from many books and articles with long-lost tales from dusty old tomes, this weird and wonderful podcast takes a fascinating look at countless curious subjects.

New episodes are uploaded every Thursday, and feature everything from real-life encounters with pesky poltergeists to fantastical beasts from the Mabinogion and the skulled-headed Christmas favourite herself, the Mari Lwyd.

Be sure to subscribe, and for more details and to get in touch with Mark Rees, please visit:

• Mark Rees homepage
• Mark Rees on social media
• Books by Mark Rees
• Ghosts of Wales podcast