Llywelyn Family Genealogy & History

Gruffudd ap Llywelyn (c. 1010 – 5 August 1063) was the first and only Welsh king to successfully unify all of Wales under his rule from 1055 to 1063. Before this, he reigned as King of Gwynedd and Powys from 1039 to 1055. Known for his military prowess, Gruffudd achieved notable victories against Mercian forces and expanded his territory by capturing Deheubarth, Morgannwg, and Gwent. His reign is marked by a rare period of peace and unity in Wales, as noted by historian John Davies. Gruffudd's leadership was recognized by contemporaries who referred to him as "the head and shield of the Britons" and "King of the Welsh."

Gruffudd was the son of Llywelyn ap Seisyll, former King of Gwynedd, and Angharad ferch Maredudd, daughter of Maredudd ab Owain, King of Deheubarth. His lineage includes the renowned Hywel Dda, further embedding his roots in Welsh royal heritage. Following the death of his father, Gruffudd's rise to power involved overcoming internal and external rivals, such as Iago ab Idwal ap Meurig, to eventually unify the Welsh kingdoms under his rule.

Dafydd ap Llywelyn, King of Gwynedd from 1240 to 1246, played a pivotal role in Welsh history. Born around March 1212, Dafydd was the son of Llywelyn the Great and Joan, Lady of Wales. His reign was marked by political and military conflict, notably with King Henry III of England. Despite challenges, including his half-brother Gruffydd's rivalry, Dafydd secured alliances and regained territories like Mold Castle. His diplomatic efforts with Pope Innocent IV initially recognized his rule over North Wales, although this was later reversed. Dafydd's sudden death in 1246 halted his campaign against English forces, leaving a legacy as "tarian Cymru" or the shield of Wales.

Dafydd ap Llywelyn was the only son of Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, known as Llywelyn the Great, and Joan, daughter of King John of England. His grandfather, King John, was embroiled in baronial conflicts in England at the time of Dafydd's birth. Llywelyn the Great worked diligently to establish Dafydd as his heir, gaining recognition from King Henry III and securing Joan's legitimization by Pope Honorius III.

Dafydd ap Dafydd ap Llywelyn was an illegitimate son of Dafydd ap Llywelyn, the Prince of Wales and King of Gwynedd from 1240 to 1246. Known as an ancestor of the Prys or Price of Esgairweddan family, he is associated with the royal arms of Gwynedd. Despite his lineage, Dafydd was unable to contest the throne of Gwynedd after his father's death in 1246 due to his minority and the terms set by his grandfather Llywelyn Fawr and King John of England, which barred illegitimate descendants from succession.

Dafydd ap Dafydd ap Llywelyn was the son of Dafydd ap Llywelyn, a notable Welsh prince. His family lineage is connected to the royal house of Gwynedd, although his mother's identity remains unknown. The family's direct male line is believed to have ended with Robert Price of Esgairweddan in 1702.

Dafydd Llywelyn was a renowned Welsh composer, pianist, conductor, and teacher, known for his distinctive style characterized by hyper-polyphony and meditative timelessness. Born in South Wales in 1939, he received early piano lessons from his father and later studied under notable musicians like Shura Cherkassky and Pierre Boulez. Llywelyn's compositions spanned genres, including solo instrument pieces, film music, and jazz. As a performer, he graced stages across Europe, the United States, and Canada. He also contributed significantly to music education, mentoring young talents such as Roberta Pili, and served as a guest professor at the University of Belgrade.