Did you know that there might just be a Welsh Atlantis?
Cantre’r Gwaelod is etched within Welsh legend as an ancient sunken kingdom believed to have lied between Ynys Dewi and Ynys Enlli in what is now Bae Ceredigion on the west coast of Cymru.
Due to the nature of its surrounding mythology, lack of concrete evidence and the manner of its supposed disappearance, it has often been dubbed as the “Welsh Atlantis” and has featured in each of folklore, literature, and song.
The legend is believed to have began with ‘Llyfr Du Caerfyrddin’ (the ‘Black Book of Carmarthen’) – an early 13th century manuscript believed to be the oldest remaining to have been written in Cymraeg. In Llyfr Du Caerfyrddin, it is mentioned that the land was named ‘Maes Gwyddno’ (the ‘the Plain of Gwyddno’). The land would be lost to floods following the neglection of duty by a well-maiden named Mererid.
Whereas the above is likely to be legend, there is also the more realistic possibility that it was simply submerged by rising waters in Bae Ceredigion. After all, there is evidence of this occurring with Y Borth and its ancient forest beneath the sea – remains of which are visible at certain times of the year. Between 5,000 and 4,500 BP (archaeological terminology meaning “before present”), the forest stood and stretched approximately 5 km in length.
So, does it exist? I am not qualified to say, I am afraid. There is, however, a fantastic video about it by Cambrian Chronicles on YouTube.
DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – February 2026
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Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.