Maen Achwyfan Cross

The art of the Vikings

Maen Achwyfan is a particularly fine early Christian cross standing 11ft/3.4m high, probably dating from the late 10th century in commemoration of a person or event. Fashioned from one single stone, it features a circular head resembling the shape of a wheel and is covered by intricate carvings with and well-preserved interlacing designs, together with stylised human and animal figures.

For a Christian monument it has interesting Viking roots. Its design is heavily influenced by the presence of Viking sea raiders in this part of Wales.