Gruffydd Maelor I

Gruffydd Maelor (died 1191) was Prince of Powys Fadog in Wales.

Arms of Gruffydd Maelor

He is known as Gruffydd Maelor I to distinguish him from his grandson, Gruffydd Maelor II (died 1269).

Lineage

He was a son of Madog ap Maredudd by Susanna, daughter of Gruffudd ap Cynan. He was to be the founder of the principal ruling family of northern Powys during the 13th century.

Inheritance

On his father's death in 1160 Powys was divided between his three sons (Gruffydd, Owain Brogyntyn and Owain Fychan), a nephew (Owain Cyfeiliog) and a half-brother (Iowerth Goch ap Maredudd).

Gruffydd received Maelor (also known as Bromfield) and Iâl (also known as Yale), as his allotted portion of Powys. He later added Nanheudwy, Cynllaith Owain and Mochnant Is Rhaeadr after the death of his half-brother Owain Fychan in 1187.

Unification of northern Powys

His inherited and acquired lands in effect unified and reunited most of northern Powys forming what became known as Powys Fadog after it was inherited by his son.

Marriage

He married Angharad, his cousin and daughter of Owain Gwynedd, King of Gwynedd.

Death & Issue

He died in 1191, leaving issue:

• Madog, who succeeded his father.
• Owen, joint ruler with his brother, died 1197.

References & Sources

• Prof. T Jones Pierce MA FSA, The History of Wales (Aberystwyth)
• Lloyd, History of Wales