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The Eisteddfod ('sitting together') originated in the 12th century as a
competition among poets and musicians, and is still the most important social
and cultural event in the modern Welsh cultural calendar.
This newsreel item shows one of the ceremonies held at the National Eisteddfod of
Aberystwyth in 1916. The Gorsedd Circle seen here is located in the ruins of
Aberystwyth castle and a speech is in progress. At the close of the proceedings,
the Gorsedd of Bards walks in procession led by policemen and firemen carrying
the Gorsedd regalia. The Archdruid (Dyfed) is seen in the front row (centre) of
white-robed men.
The Gorsedd of Bards has been an integral part of the Eisteddfod since 1819,
but despite references to ancient druidic traditions it has a relatively modern
history, having been established in 1789.
Lesley Jones
This article was originally written for the BFI Mediatheque
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Complete film (0:57)
