Did you know that Yny Lhyvyr Hwnn (1546) was the first book to be printed in Cymraeg (Welsh)?
It was written by a Sir John Price of Brecon. Price, a nobleman and secretary of the Council of Wales and the Marches, is widely considered as being one of the most significant Welsh manuscript collectors of his time.
The purpose of Yny Lhyvyr Hwnn was simple; it was written with the intention of correcting a lack of religious material (something made far more difficult by the then-contemporary events of Dissolution of the Monasteries and the Laws in Wales Acts, both by Henry VIII) available in the Welsh language. The book is also noteworthy for containing the first Cymraeg printed alphabet.
Interestingly, only one known original copy is believed to remain in existence and it is held by Llyfrgell Genedlaethol Cymru | The National Library of Wales, following its donation by Sir John Williams in 1908.
DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – January 2026
More from Welsh Histories
Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. You can also support us as a member of our Patreon community. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories Magazine. Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.
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.