Gruffydd Maelor I
Gruffydd Maelor (died 1191) was Prince of Powys Fadog in Wales.
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 northern Powys was divided into two in 1160 with territory north of the River Rhaeadr being further sub-divided between Gruffydd and his two brothers, Owain Fychan and Owain Brogyntyn.
He received Maelor, also known as Bromfield, and Iâl also known as Yale, as his allotted portion of his father's realm and later added Nanheudwy, Cynllaith Owain and Lower Mochnant on the death of his half-brother Owain Fychan in 1187.
Seized Lands
He later seized the cantref of Cyfeiliog from his nephews Owain and Meurig. His inherited and acquired lands in effect unified and reunited most of northern Powys.
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