Gorseth Collection

Gorsedh Kernow Bardic ceremony, Roche, Cornwall. September 1991
Cornish Bards gather in the field beneath Roche Rock where the Gorsedh Kernow, or Cornish Gorsedh, takes place. Photographer: Jonathan Barker

Gorsedh Kernow Bardic ceremony, Launceston Castle, Launceston, Cornwall. 1972
Cornish Bards processing from the entrance to the castle at the Cornish Gorsedh. Denis Trevanion (Trevanyon) was the Grand Bard at the time this photograph was taken. Photographer: Charles Woolf

Gorsedh Kernow Bardic ceremony, Lostwithiel, Cornwall. September 1989
The Bardic procession makes its way onto the King George VI playing field in Lostwithiel, for the first Gorsedh Kernow, or Cornish Gorsedh, to be held in the town since its inauguration in 1928

Cornish Gorsedd procession, St Just, Cornwall
The Cornish Gorsedd, a community of modern-day bards, taking part in the Sword of Arthur ceremony and procession at St Just in Cornwall

Cornish Gorsedd, Sword of Arthur, St Just, Cornwall
The Cornish Gorsedd, a community of modern-day bards, taking part in the Sword of Arthur ceremony at St Just in Cornwall. The Gorseth Kernow (Gorsedd of Cornwall)

Cornish Gorsedd, Sword of Arthur, Cornwall
The Cornish Gorsedd, a community of modern-day bards, taking part in the Sword of Arthur ceremony at St Just in Cornwall. The Gorseth Kernow (Gorsedd of Cornwall)

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The ancient tradition of Gorseth, also known as the Cornish Gorsedd, holds a deep significance in Cornwall's rich cultural heritage, and is a ceremony that brings together bards and scholars to celebrate the arts, language, and history of this enchanting land. One cannot mention Gorseth without evoking images of Arthurian legends and the Sword of Arthur. This mythical sword symbolizes strength, honor, and chivalry - qualities deeply revered by those who partake in the Gorseth ceremonies. St Just, a picturesque town nestled in Cornwall's rugged landscape, has witnessed many memorable Gorseth Kernow Bardic ceremonies throughout history. In September 1991 at Roche, another small village with its own unique charm, bards gathered once again to pay homage to their ancestral roots. The year 1972 saw Launceston Castle become an ethereal backdrop for one such grand ceremony. Bards from all corners of Cornwall converged upon this historic site to immerse themselves in the magic that only they are offer. Lostwithiel became a hub for creativity during September 1989 when it hosted yet another unforgettable Gorsedh Kernow Bardic ceremony. The air was filled with poetry recitals and melodic tunes as participants celebrated Cornish culture through their artistic expressions. Processions are an integral part of any Cornish Gorsedd event; St Just witnessed countless vibrant processions where bards proudly displayed their colorful robes while parading through its charming streets. These processions serve as a visual feast for locals and tourists alike - showcasing the beauty and unity found within Cornwall's creative community. Roche continued to be a focal point for numerous Gorsedh Kernow Bardic ceremonies held in September 1991s (and beyond). Here at Roche's sacred grounds, bards assembled under open skies to share their wisdom through verse and song – forging connections between past generations and present aspirations.