St Tysilio and St Mary's Church

The Church of St Tysilio and St Mary stands in Meifod, a small village seven miles north-west of Welshpool in Powys. The site has been a centre of Welsh Christianity since about 500 and the unusually large churchyard was once part of an early clas settlement. The present church dates from the 12th century but incorporates earlier elements. It is dedicated to Saints Tysilio and Mary, Tysilio being a 6th- or 7th-century nobleman and Bishop of St Asaph. The church is a Grade I listed building and the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales calls it a display of Welsh Christianity through the centuries. The church’s history is tied to local rulers. A hermit named Gwyddfarch is said to have founded the first church here. Tysilio, son of Brochwel Ysgithrog, King of Powys, is linked to a second church. The site became a royal burial ground. A Romanesque church in the shape of a cross was built in the 11th or 12th century by Madog ap Maredudd. Later changes include a 14th-century doorway, a 15th-century tower and a 17th-century font. In the 19th century Benjamin Ferrey carried out a major restoration. Inside, the church has a combined nave and chancel, a western tower and north and south aisles built mainly of local rubble with slate roofs. Ferrey’s work uncovered earlier features built into the fabric. Stained glass by Henry Hughes and David Evans adds colour. The churchyard covers nine acres, unusually large for the area. The Cadw listing describes it as a very important medieval church with much of historical interest. Regular services are still held in this active parish church.