Driving in Gwynedd, an area in north-west Wales, you find several stone circles, like in Bala and Porthmadog. Since the 5th century this part of Wales has been named after the Kingdom of Gwynedd. These stone circles look different from examples such as Castlerigg Stone Circle in England or the Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland. They look less affected by time or weather.

If you are surprised that they are near a playground, it is not so exceptional as these stone circles are quite new. They are modern stone circles and are erected for the annual Eisteddfod festivals. The history of the Eisteddfod can be traced back to a bardic competition held by the Lord Rhys in Cardigan Castle in 1176. The first modern event was held in 1861 in Aberdare and is traditionally held in the first week of August.

Eisteddfod is a celebration of the culture and language of Wales. The festival has a quasi-druidic flavor under the auspices of the Gorsedd of modern-day bards of the Island of Britain. If there is no stone circle, one is created at each Eisteddfod, with stones usually taken from the local area. Each stone structure is arranged in a circular formation typically consisting of twelve stone pillars (denoting the 12 former counties), a large, flat-topped stone, known as the Logan Stone, lies at the centre of the circle and serves as a platform. The portal stone to the right of the entrance points to midsummer sunrise, while that to the left indicates the midwinter sunrise.

If you are not familiar with the recent history of the Eisteddfod you may be surprised that the stone circles of Bala and Porthmadog are a part of the local environment, so close to some playground equipment, the main road, an industrial area and a residential area. It is an exceptional and inspiring place to be.