, Bosherston, Pembrokeshire, Wales,
St Govan's Chapel on the southernmost tip of Pembrokeshire is a magical place, shrouded in Celtic myths and legends. But unlike many legends a visit to St Govans Chapel will at least deliver an actual building to enjoy. The stone chapel is but 18 feet by 12 feet and is believed to have been built in the 13th Century. Indeed the original cell may have been founded in the 6th Century when Govan arrived from Ireland.
The story goes that Govan landed in Pembrokeshire after being chased by the pirates who occupied Lundy Island. Tradition says that a cleft in the rock at St Govan's Point opened miraculously for Govan to hide in, closed over him, and opened miraculously for a second time after the pirates had gone away.
Although Govan was an elderly man he decided to stay for the rest of his life in his cell, worshipping, preaching and teaching here in South Pembrokeshire. His saintliness was marked by the Church, which designated March 26th. as St Govan's Day, and by followers who built the Chapel in the Cliffs. Tradition says that St Govan lies buried under the altar in the chapel which bears his name. He died in 586.
Some believe that St Govan was actually Sir Gawain - King Arthur's nephew (Arthur of the Knights of the Round Table). According to local legend he is buried here, having retired to live out his days as a hermit after King Arthur's death.
A visit to St Govans Chapel is a must for those visiting Bosherston or taking the Coastal Path, but beware the many stones steps that lead down the cliffs. Legend has it that no one can count the same number of steps down as up.
Free Admission
Open All Year....
