Culture & Genealogy
Wales is a country with a rich culture
Language
We have our own language and many traditions unique to our
country. The Welsh language is thought to be one of the oldest
in Europe, dating from the 6th century. Although
English is our main language, you will come across Welsh everyday,
on TV or radio, on road signs or just simply hear it spoken on the
street. Why not give it a go yourself, it can be a little
tricky at first but you'll find yourself saying Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch
in no time.
Here are a few simple phrases to help you on your way:
Bore da - Good Morning
Prynhawn da - Good Afternoon
Noswaith dda - Good Evening
Nôs da - Good night
Shwd Mae? - How are you?
Diolch - Thank you
Croeso - Welcome
Iechyd da - Cheers
Festivals
To celebrate our celtic culture we hold a number events and
festivals throughout the year. The National Eisteddfod, a
feast of singing, dancing and pageantry is one of our most famous
while the seaside town of Porthcawl attracts musicians from all
over the Celtic world each spring for the Cwlwm
Celtaidd Celtic Festival of Wales.
Other notable days throughout the year include, Santes Dwynwen Day
on 25th January (the Welsh version of Valentine's
Day). On the 1st March we celebrate our
patron Saint, St David, and then there's Calan Gaeaf on 31 October,
where we celebrate the start of winter rather than the more popular
Halloween that is celebrated elsewhere on the same date. We
also celebrate the New Year in our own unique way with the Mari
Lwyd, an ancient tradition founded in the village of Llangynwyd
near Bridgend.
Geneology
Over the centuries many people have left Wales for pastures new -
surprising when you consider what a wonderful country they left
behind! Now there are countless people of Welsh ancestry
throughout the World. If you're one of them maybe you'll want
to trace your family tree? Come and find the village where
your Tad-cu (Grandfather) was born or the house where
Great-aunt Megan was raised. Maybe you were born in Wales and
have a longing to return for a visit or just simply want to trace
your family tree. Whatever the reason we're waiting to
welcome you home.
If you're intereted in tracing your Welsh heritage then why not
visit a few of these websites for more information
Homecoming Wales
National Archives Census Records