Llyn Afanc is a lake near Bettws y Coed (Translation 'Prayer House In The Wood) in the Snowdonia National Park and is named after the legendary 'Afanc' (pronounced Ahvank)
A lake monster from Welsh mythology, the afanc can also be traced through references in British Celtic folklore, and has been linked to various other places in Wales.
The demonic creature was variously said to look like a crocodile, giant beaver or dwarf,and to attack and devour anyone who entered its waters.
There are many variations of the legend, including one which has the mosnter dwelling at Aberdyfi, and of King Arthur slaying the monster on the shores of Llyn Barfog (the Bearded Lake) Near Llyn Barfog is a rock with a hoof print carved into it, along with the words Carn March Arthur (stone of Arthur's mare), supposedly made by the horse when Arthur lassoed the afanc with a magical chain and his steed, Llamrai, dragged it from the deep.
A lake monster from Welsh mythology, the afanc can also be traced through references in British Celtic folklore, and has been linked to various other places in Wales.
The demonic creature was variously said to look like a crocodile, giant beaver or dwarf,and to attack and devour anyone who entered its waters.
There are many variations of the legend, including one which has the mosnter dwelling at Aberdyfi, and of King Arthur slaying the monster on the shores of Llyn Barfog (the Bearded Lake) Near Llyn Barfog is a rock with a hoof print carved into it, along with the words Carn March Arthur (stone of Arthur's mare), supposedly made by the horse when Arthur lassoed the afanc with a magical chain and his steed, Llamrai, dragged it from the deep.
Another legnd says many men had tried to kill the monster but its thick hide was impervious to sword or arrow. The wise men of the valley decided if force wouldn’t work, then the Afanc must somehow be enticed out of his pool and removed to a lake far away beyond the mountains, where he could cause no further trouble. The lake chosen to be the Afanc’s new home was Llyn Ffynnon Las, under the shadow of Mount Snowdon.
Courtesy of Elle Wilson |
An interesting tale. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteGosh I wish I could take you to Vermont. We have our own monster in Lake Champlain called Champ. Look it up, kinda like Nessie...
ReplyDeleteHi Beth,thanks so much for visiting my blog, glad you enjoyed the post.
ReplyDeleteHi Mary - that's so interesting about Lake Champlain. Isn't it fascinating how variations of similar legends can be found all over the world!
ReplyDeleteWow! I'd love to see the rock with Arthur's steed's print on. Kind of brings life to yet another legend. thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteNever heard this tale. Really enjoyed it. And the photos too.
ReplyDeleteSue B
Hi Sue glad you enjoyed the post - thanks so much for stopping by. x
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