Gorsedh Kernow

Gorsedh Kernow exists to maintain the national Celtic spirit of Cornwall and give expression to such spirit; to encourage the study of Cornish history and the Cornish language; to foster Cornish literature, art, music, dance and sport; to link Cornwall with other Celtic countries, and to promote a spirit of peace and co-operation among those who work in Cornwall’s honour.

The Esedhvos Festival is held every year at a different location in Cornwall to celebrate Cornwall's distinctive identity and Celtic heritage, newly recognised under the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities.

The revival of Gorsedh Kernow began at Boscawen Un on September 21st 1928 with the initiation of 12 Bards by the Archdruid Pedrog of Wales and these days representatives from our fellow Celtic nations of Wales and Brittany join our celebrations each year in Cornwall. Bardships are awarded in recognition of work done for Cornwall or for high proficiency in the Cornish language, Kernewek, which is used in all Bardic Ceremonies, but can easily be understood by the English translation.

Ceremonies begin with the sounding of the Korn Gwlas to the four points of the compass, a symbolic call to all Cornwall, the Ceremony of Peace and Joining of the Sword symbolising the uniting of the three Celtic Nations of Cornwall, Wales and Brittany. The Ceremony of the Offering, performed this year by Rosie Hortop from Torpoint, is followed by ‘Arta ef a Dheu’ - the old belief that Arthur will return and restore the nationhood of Cornwall, and finally a repeat of The Ceremony of Peace.

It is open to the public and entrance is FREE. Details of all events are on www.gorsedhkernow.org.uk or our Facebook page.

Gorsedh Kernow

Gorsedh Kernow