Bombed priest’s house, Llantwit Major
Bombed priest’s house, Llantwit Major
The ruined building south of St Illtud’s Church is thought to date from c.1500. It was partially destroyed by aerial bombing in the Second World War. The photo on the right, courtesy of Llantwit Major History Society, was taken before the war.
Nobody knows why the building was erected. According to local tradition, it was built for the priests who said masses for the wealthy Raglan family in what was known as the Galilee Chapel (an extension at the western end of the church). Another possibility is that it was a watermill for the local monastic grange.
The building featured some elaborate windows, which may have been removed from the church during alterations. After the Reformation, it was a dwelling, a mill and a smithy at different times.
It was left a ruin by an explosion on the night of 22 August 1940, when the Luftwaffe (German air force) dropped several bombs on Llantwit Major. Nearby RAF St Athan was a target for bombing raids. On that night, one plane probably dropped its bombs prematurely, hitting the town. The first two bombs damaged windows in St Illtud’s Church – including one which commemorated victims of the First World War.
With thanks to Nigel Williams of Llantwit Major History Society
Postcode: CF61 1SG View Location Map