Santes Dwynwen: The Legend Behind the Most Romantic Day in Wales

In Wales, we don’t wait until February to celebrate love. Every January 25th, we honor our very own patron saint of lovers with Dydd Santes Dwynwen.

If you’re looking to add a touch of Welsh heritage to your home or find a gift with real meaning, here is everything you need to know about the most romantic day in the Welsh calendar.

The Legend of Santes Dwynwen

The story of Dwynwen is a bit more dramatic than your average Hallmark card. A 5th-century princess, Dwynwen fell deeply in love with a man named Maelon. However, her father, King Brychan Brycheiniog, had already arranged for her to marry someone else.

Heartbroken, Dwynwen fled to the woods and prayed for help. Legend says an angel gave her a potion to erase her memory of Maelon (which unfortunately also turned him into a block of ice!). God then granted Dwynwen three wishes:

1. That Maelon be thawed.

2. That God meet the hopes and dreams of all true lovers.

3. That she would never marry.

She became a nun and founded a convent on Ynys Llanddwyn (Llanddwyn Island) off the coast of Anglesey. Today, the ruins of her church and her "healing well" remain a place of pilgrimage for those seeking luck in love.

Traditions: From Spoons to Scents

While the world has February 14th, Wales has its own beautiful ways to say "Rwy’n dy garu di" (I love you).

The Welsh Lovespoon

Historically, young men would carve intricate wooden lovespoons for the women they admired. Every symbol on the handle had a meaning:

• Hearts: The universal symbol of love.

• Bells: For weddings or anniversaries.

• Knots: Symbolizing everlasting love and togetherness.

• Locks: Representing security and "the key to my heart."

Setting the Atmosphere with Candlelight

In the spirit of Dwynwen’s wish for "cheerfulness" and "blessed life," lighting a candle is the perfect modern way to honor the day. Whether you're having a quiet dinner or a long soak in the bath, scent plays a huge role in creating that romantic haven.

Our Santes Dwynwen Recommendations:

• Rose & Lavender: The perfect marriage of floral elegance and herbal calm. 

• Welsh Cake: Cozy and warm, Our signature fragrance, perfected and developed since 2015

Useful Welsh Phrases for Your Gifts

If you’re writing a card to go with your candle, try these romantic phrases: