The Vale of Clwyd was a significant center for the development of Christianity, with numerous Celtic saints establishing religious cells in the area. St. Meugan's church in Llanrhydd became a prominent mother church, recorded in historical documents and receiving compensation for damages during wars. Edward I's conquest of Wales in 1282 led to the reduction of St. Meugan's influence, as Ruthin Castle was constructed, and Ruthin became a chartered borough.
Lord John de Grey established St. Peter's Collegiate Church in 1310, housing a community of priests known as the Bonshommes. The church endured damage during uprisings but continued to serve the community. Over time, the church underwent alterations, including a Victorian restoration and the addition of a spire. St. Peter's is known for its distinctive double-naved structure and magnificent timber roofs. Dean Gabriel Goodman played a significant role in Ruthin, refounding the wardenship and constructing almshouses.
The church experienced maintenance challenges, including a fire in 1904. In 1920, the Welsh Church Act resulted in the separation of Wales and Monmouthshire from the Church of England. Notable memorials and historical buildings related to the church and Gabriel Goodman can be found in the vicinity.
References:House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams) is a building situated in the old town of Riga. The original building was erected during the first third of the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried German merchants in Riga. Major works were done in the years 1580 and 1886, adding most of the ornaments.
The structure was bombed to a ruin by the Germans June 28, 1941 and the remains demolished by the Soviets in 1948. The current reconstruction was erected from 1995 to 1999. Today the House of Blackheads serves as a museum and sometimes concert hall.