BattlefieldsBattle of Machay Valley
Early Medieval

Battle of Machay Valley

1056
Radnorshire, Wales
Also known as: Death of Bishop Leofgar 1056 · Battle of the Machawy
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Radnorshire, Wales
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England (Bishop Leofgar)
Forces
English army led by Bishop Leofgar of Hereford (c. 2,000–3,000).
VS
Victor
Wales (Gruffudd ap Llywelyn)
Forces
Welsh forces under Gruffudd ap Llywelyn (c. 3,000–4,000)
Outcome
Welsh victory; Bishop of Hereford and his companions killed
The Battle

History & Significance

Bishop Leofgar of Hereford — a warlike cleric described as wearing his moustache even after ordination — led an army into Wales without royal authority and was killed by Gruffudd ap Llywelyn in the valley of the Machawy river. The Chronicle records he "forsook his chrism and his cross... and took to his spear and his sword." His death shocked England. The Earl of Hereford and the Earl of Leofric had to be sent to restore order and eventually make peace with Gruffudd.

Casualties & Losses

Bishop Leofgar and his companions killed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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