Cofiwch Dryweryn: Meaning, History and Why It Still Matters
What Does “Cofiwch Dryweryn” Mean?
“Cofiwch Dryweryn” means “Remember Tryweryn” in Welsh.
It refers to the flooding of the village of Capel Celyn in the 1960s to create a reservoir, an event that became a powerful symbol of Welsh identity, political resistance, and cultural memory.
This phrase is most famously seen painted on a roadside wall in Wales, where it continues to stand as a reminder of a controversial chapter in Welsh history.
Gallery of Shame
The inhabitants of Capel Celyn protesting against the flooding of their homes, ultimately in vain.
What Happened at Tryweryn?
In the early 1960s, the UK government approved plans to flood the Tryweryn Valley, near to Bala in North Wales. The goal was to create a reservoir to supply water to Liverpool.
This decision led to the destruction of Capel Celyn, a rural Welsh-speaking village. Despite widespread opposition from Welsh communities and political representatives, the plan went ahead.
The reservoir, known today as Llyn Celyn, submerged homes, a school, a chapel, and farmland, permanently displacing residents.
Why Was Capel Celyn Flooded?
The flooding of Capel Celyn was authorised through an Act of Parliament, allowing Liverpool City Council to proceed with the reservoir project.
What made this decision particularly controversial was that:
- It was approved despite strong local opposition
- Most Welsh MPs voted against it
- The affected community had little power to stop it
For many, this event became a defining example of decisions being imposed on Wales without its consent.
The Cofiwch Dryweryn Wall
The phrase “Cofiwch Dryweryn” gained national recognition through a painted wall located beside the A487 road near Llanrhystud in Ceredigion. Despite the humble original, the mural took on lasting significance, reminding people locally and internationally not to forget Tryweryn. It is interesting to note that Meic Stephens, a prolific author described these two words as "my most famous statement, my best-known poem, my most eloquent speech, and my most influential political act.
Originally painted in the 1960s, the mural has since become:
- A cultural landmark
- A symbol of Welsh identity
- A site of protest and remembrance
Although the wall has been vandalised multiple times, it is consistently restored, reflecting its enduring importance.
Why Cofiwch Dryweryn Still Matters Today
More than half a century later, “Cofiwch Dryweryn” continues to resonate.
It represents:
- The preservation of Welsh language and culture
- Awareness of historical injustice
- Ongoing discussions around political autonomy
For many people in Wales, the phrase is not just about the past. It is a reminder of the importance of identity, community, and having a voice in national decisions.
Official Apology and Modern Reflection
In 2005, Liverpool City Council issued a formal apology for the hurt caused by the Tryweryn project, acknowledging the insensitivity of the original decision that led to Capel Celyn’s destruction, although the apology received mixed reactions in Wales. It is an understatement to say that the apology was not universally accepted in Wales!!!
Visiting Tryweryn Today
Today, the site of Capel Celyn lies beneath Llyn Celyn, a reservoir surrounded by natural beauty.
While the original village is gone, its story is remembered through:
- Memorials
- Historical records
- The continued presence of the Cofiwch Dryweryn wall
Visitors can explore the surrounding area and reflect on the history tied to the landscape.
FAQs About Cofiwch Dryweryn
What does Cofiwch Dryweryn mean?
It means “Remember Tryweryn” in Welsh, referring to the flooding of Capel Celyn in the 1960s.
Why is Cofiwch Dryweryn important?
It symbolises Welsh identity, cultural preservation, and resistance to decisions imposed without local consent.
Where is the Cofiwch Dryweryn wall?
The mural is located beside the A487 road near Llanrhystud in Ceredigion, Wales.
When was Capel Celyn flooded?
The village was flooded in 1965 to create Llyn Celyn reservoir.
Who created the Cofiwch Dryweryn mural?
The original mural is attributed to Welsh writer and journalist Meic Stephens.
Can you visit Tryweryn today?
Yes. While the original village is underwater, visitors can see Llyn Celyn and nearby memorials.
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Final Notes
“Cofiwch Dryweryn” remains one of the most recognisable and meaningful phrases in modern Welsh history. Its message continues to educate, provoke thought, and preserve the memory of a community that was lost but not forgotten.