The Legends of Wales - Merlin

According to local legend, Merlin was born in the area around Carmarthen in South Wales. He was raised by his mother and the nuns in the Church of St Peter. Merlin's mother was thought to be the daughter of the King of South Wales. His father was described by people of the time as a spirit who lived between the moon and the earth.

Merlin spent most of his time in the area of Caerleon where he was a great help to King Arthur. He also spent time roaming in the lowlands of Scotland after a terrible defeat at the Battle of Arfderydd in 573AD. It is said that he roamed the lowlands for more than 50 years with only a pig and the animals of the area for his only companionship.

In the twilight of Merlin's life, he fell in love with a beautiful young woman named Vivien. Vivien seduced Merlin with her beauty and charms and persuaded him to reveal his secrets of his mysticism to her. I n return for this, she promised him unending love. When Merlin capitulated and told all his secrets to this woman who promised to love him, the cunning Vivien put a spell on Merlin which cast him into a deep slumber. She left him in a cave for all eternity, only to come out of the sleep if and when King Arthur and his men awaken.

There are stories set around the Carmarthen area that are connected with Merlin's prophecies. The most famous part of his legacy is the Priory Oak Tree in Carmarthen of which one of the prophecies said 'When Merlin's tree shall tumble down, then shall fall Carmarthen town'. According to the legend, if this prophecy ever comes true, this will lead to a time of great danger for the country. On Merlin's Hill near Abergwili outside of Carmarthen, you can visit the area where the cave holding the sleeping Merlin is reputed to be, and hear the moaning of a man cursing his folly of love. The hill is set amongst the beautiful farmland of the Tywi River valley and is easily visited for those who wish to partake of the mystery and lore surrounding Merlin. The visitor's centre offers an exhibition of artifacts from the Carmarthen area as well as some historical perspective of the South Wales area, Be prepared, because the home of Merlin's cave is also a working dairy farm! The past and present are working side by side, preserving the legend of Merlin and his contribution to the folklore of Wales.