In the footsteps of pilgrims
Ramblers Cymru is inviting walkers to join a 22-day pilgrimage from Llanthony to St Davids as part of the UK’s nationwide Cultural Olympiad celebrations.
On the 16th June a group of pilgrims will embark on a 22 day journey across South Wales, through ancient sites and breathtaking landscapes as part of the Welsh Government’s Cultural Olympiad celebrations called Cauldrons & Furnaces, taking place at Cadw sites across Wales. Ramblers Cymru will be organising walks along the way and invite you to become a part of the journey and ‘be a pilgrim for the day’.
You can “become a part of the celebrations and join us as we trace the steps of our history,” explains Angela Charlton, Director Ramblers Cymru. “Our groups have created these walks so that anyone can join in to explore Wales’ cultural heritage, and be a pilgrim for part of the way by walking with the Ramblers.”
The Dewi Sant Pilgrimage 2012, which is one of eight events being organised by the Welsh heritage organisation Cadw, will see artists and storytellers recreate Welsh history as they journey to the final resting place of St David. Ramblers volunteers have organised free, open to all walks along the route of the pilgrimage, which takes in the many ancient sites, holy wells and monuments visited by pilgrims throughout the ages. The walks offer the opportunity to become a pilgrim for the day, enjoying the heritage and scenic landscapes of South Wales in the company of other outdoor enthusiasts and experienced Ramblers walk leaders.
“This physical journey across south Wales is an opportunity for people to come together and appreciate the stunning landscape,” says Clare Williams, the creative events programmer of Cauldrons & Furnaces, “as well as connect with nature, heritage and art. The walk will finish on 7 July with a procession through the city, led by creatures associated with St David’s life, a hog roast, banners, bells and drums. The procession will pass through the cathedral and then into the bishop’s palace for a celebration of music, food and dance.”
Walkers can wend their way along the Offas Dyke path and River Taff, take in the welsh valleys and Carmarthenshire coastline and visit Kidwelly and Caerphilly Castle, sharing stories as they go.
A map of the walks and other Dewi Sant Pilgrimage 2012 events can be found on the Ramblers Cyrmu website or for more information email cerddwyr@ramblers.org.uk.
