Pass through any Welsh community and you'll always be surprised what historical gems lie hidden. Corwen is no exception as Karen Foy explores to find out more.
   
Situated on the banks of the River Dee in the shadow of the Berwyn Mountains, Corwen lies west of Llangollen and thirteen miles south of Ruthin. Its location between the Welsh Borders and the Snowdonia National Park not only means it is in a truly picturesque spot but is also steeped in the history of the region. Wherever you venture in Corwen it's impossible to ignore the links to the Welsh nobleman Owain Glyndwr - anglicised by William Shakespeare as Owen Glendower. His childhood willage of Glyndyfrdwy lies close by so he knew the area well and had no problem rallying supporters to rise up and challenge their English oppressors. From September 1400, the self-proclaimed Prince of Wales led his followers in a fight for independence but gradually the rebellion lost pace and, refusing pardon and evading capture, Owain was last seen in 1412 with his final years remaining a complete mystery to this day.

The story continues on page 6 of our magazine.