THE story of a Welsh nobleman who was declared the Prince of Wales in rebellion against the English monarchy is known across Wales, but perhaps not as much as the Battle of Hastings in 1066. A festival in Corwen wants to change that, however, by celebrating medieval Wales in all its gruesome glory.

Swords and shields will chink and bang at the Gŵyl y Fflam, a two-day event set to take place for the first time in September. It is planned to be one of the largest gatherings of Welsh historical societies in the country with the aim to generate widespread interest and become a recognised fixture on the national calendar.

The date of the festival, September 14-15, was purposely chosen as it precedes Owain Glyndwr Day on the 16th, celebrated in Corwen for his links to the area. He was named the Prince of Wales two miles from the town in 1400 and went to set up the first Welsh parliament, though the English military would prove too strong.

But it is not only the story of Glyndwr that festival coordinator Dylan Jones want to bring to light.

“We believe its the first festival to focus just on Wales,” he said. “We have sport re-enactment fighting and participants really fight to win, as well as living history camps, a market and activities and. We’ve also amassed a great selection of Welsh societies who are keen to pass on their knowledge.”

The societies include the Powys Society, which studies the writings of John Cowper, Theodore and Llewelyn Powys, as well as the Clwyd and Powys Archaeological Trust which preserves the historic environment of Wales.

There will also be a parade which focuses on symbolism from medieval Wales, including dragons and heraldic emblems.

The big scoop for the festival is considered to be the hosting of the British Medieval Combat Championships. It includes full contact sport fighting using historically accurate weapon and armour reproduction and authentic historical tournament rules. The annual event is normally held over the border so its the first time its been held in Wales.

“The fighting is a real spectacle,” Mr Jones said. “The guys fight to win, though there are obvious rules, but it is an adrenaline rush for competitors and spectators.

“The Welsh medieval period is an interesting, colourful period that could easily serve as a basis to a Game of Thrones series.”