Cadafael Cadomedd ap Cynfeddw

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Cadafael ap Cynfeddw (reigned 634–c. 655), also known as Cadafael Cadomedd ('Battle-Shirker'), was a king of Gwynedd.

Little is known about Cadafael's life until after the defeat and death of Cadwallon ap Cadfan at the Battle of Heavenfield in 634. Cadfael seized power in Gwynedd at the expense of Cadwallon's son Cadwaladr, who was still a child. Cadafael was apparently not of royal blood, as he is described in the Welsh Triads as one of the Three Peasant Kings of the Isle of Britain.

He was an ally of the Mercians under Penda and fought alongside them against the Northumbrians. He participated in Penda's great invasion of Northumbria in 655. Penda's army was defeated by Oswy near the river Winwaed. Cadfael and his army had marched for home the previous night and missed the battle. It is uncertain whether Cadafael was intentionally avoiding battle or was unaware that Oswy's forces were near, however the episode earned him the scornful nickname "Cadomedd" or "Battle-shirker".

Cadafael probably did not rule for long afterwards, although his fate is unknown. At some point during the next few years, he was replaced as king, and possibly killed, by Cadwaladr.

Preceded by:
Cadwallon ap Cadfan Kings of Gwynedd Followed by:
Cadwaladr Fendigaid

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