Open Doors - St Ciwg's Church, Llangiwg

A former parish church, with medieval fabric, on a 6th century hilltop site above the Swansea Valley, with far­reaching views. It was rebuilt c.1500, altered and re­roofed in 1812, and re-­windowed in the late 19th century. Its Norman font links it with an earlier building. It houses part of an early Christian cross, dated 9th century, and has Georgian pews and panelling. There is a medieval stoup, a leper's window and spring­-fed holy well. The church is said to have been founded by Ciwg, saint and hermit.

Two illustrated talks will take place, together with church and churchyard tours, over three Saturdays - September 9, 16 and 23. On September 9 at 11.30am, well's expert and author Phil Cope will talk on 'The Living Wells of Wales', with special reference to the Llangiwg well, and on September 23 at 11.30am, Edith Evans, of the Glamorgan ­Gwent Archaeological Trust, will speak on 'Historic Churches in Gower' (the Archdeaconry of Gower), which includes material on Llangiwg. Volunteers will be available on all three Saturdays to show visitors around the church and site.

Address: St Ciwg's Church, Llangiwg, off Gwrhyd Road, near Rhydyfro, Pontardawe, Swansea, SA8 4TP. (This postcode leads to the nearest farm). Grid Ref: SN72380 05590

Access is by car, cycle or foot. The most accessible route is via Rhydyfro on the A474 from Pontardawe. As you leave Rhydyfro, turn right just before the Travellers Well pub onto the single­track Gwrhyd Road and continue uphill until you come to a signpost right for the church. Continue along this road until you reach the car park opposite the church, where there is parking for a number of cars (car­sharing is appreciated). There is a small slope up to the gate entrance, a grassed path to the church, a shallow step into the porch and a ramped step into the church.

The events are being held as part of a heritage project called Old Treasure - Rediscovering Llangiwg, which is currently being funded by Neath Port Talbot Community Heritage Fund.