A window on to the Welsh saints

New book reveals treasury of images of nation’s saints in churches

A new book, to be published on St David’s Day, presents a stunning array of images of saints from churches across Wales.

It is the first study of the portrayal of the nation’s saints and reveals a glowing treasury of images in stained glass, sculpture and other media, hardly any of which has been seen in print before. Over 500 beautiful photographs from around 250 churches across Wales tell a story of the place of the saints in Welsh religious culture and as national figures

The early saints of Wales have become an integral part of the story of the nation. The patron saint, David, or Dewi Sant, remains bound up with modern Welsh identity, and others such as Teilo, Illtud, Cadfan, Melangell, Beuno and Winefride or Gwenfrewy hold a special place in the traditions of different regions across Wales.

Author Martin Crampin says: “Stories of the men and women known as the saints of Wales make it clear that they were once widely revered as the patrons and protectors of churches and holy wells across Wales in the Middle Ages. Their names and legends have subsequently become embedded in place-names and folklore.

.“Most of the rich medieval visual culture of Welsh saints has been lost but a wealth of imagery since the mid-nineteenth century can still be found in Welsh churches."

Illustrated in colour throughout, Welsh Saints from Welsh Churches takes a journey around cathedrals and churches large and small in city centres, quiet suburbs, towns, villages and lonely fields, some of which are now closed. The book offers fresh perspectives on the art in our churches, comparing the imagery of saints by contrasting the approach taken by different artists and studios, and demonstrates how our perceptions of Welsh saints have changed over the years.

At a time when communities are working hard to ensure that their churches remain open for worship and for visitors, the book is a timely reminder of the artistic treasures that can be found in places of worship.

Welsh Saints from Welsh Churches by Martin Crampin is published on 01/03/2023 (£35, Y Lolfa).