Hywel Dda was born towards the end of the ninth century. In 928 AD he made a pilgrimage to Rome and by 942 AD he ruled over most of the country and claimed the title "King of all Wales". The Prologue to the early manuscripts state that he then summoned representatives from each commote in his kingdom to an assembly at "The White House on the Taf in Dyfed" for the purpose of codifying the laws. This legal system became known for its wisdom and justice and was in force in Wales until the Act of Union with England in 1536.
The memorial was designed by Peter Lord from Aberystwyth and includes a Garden and an Interpretive Centre.
In choosing a garden as the basis of his design the artist intended that it should provide a quiet and contemplative environment in which to explore the laws of Hywel Dda and through them, early medieval Welsh Society.
The Garden is divided into six smaller gardens, each representing a separate division of the Law:-
- Society, Kindred and Status
- Crime and Tort
- Women
- Contract
- Property
- King and Court
Each garden has its own distinct character and set of symbols, based on Celtic tree symbolism. The Laws are illustrated on slate plaques illuminated with enamels. The designs include artwork such as etched glass, ceramics, iron work and enamels.
