Celliwig

Calliwith, Celliwic, Celliwith, Kelliwig

A place-name, and variant of Celliwith, mentioned in the early Welsh tradition of the Arthurian legends and possibly cognate with Killibury. It is more likely that Celliwig was later transmuted into Camelot by the twelfth-century poets in the fanciful interpretations of the legends.

Arthur’s Cornish capital in Welsh legend. Scholars have suggested numerous corresponding locations, including Gweek Wood on the Helford River, Kelly Rounds, and Calliwith near Bodmin.

A Welsh Triad tells that Mordred once came to Celliwig, consumed all of Arthur’s food and drink, then hauled Guenevere from her throne, belted her, and left. Arthur repaid this insult by performing similar deeds at Mordred’s court. The story is unique in suggesting that Mordred and Arthur were equals.