Nightbringer | The Arthurian Online Encyclopedia

Cyledr Twll Dylluan


During Culhwch’s quest to win the hand of Olwen, he is given a series of seemingly impossible tasks by Olwen’s father, the giant Ysbaddaden. One of the tasks is to hunt the wild boar Twrch Trwyth, a ferocious and supernatural creature.

Culhwch set out on the hunt with his companions, and they encounter various adventures and challenges along the way. As they travel, they come to a ford guarded by a warrior named Cyledr Twll Dylluan, who is stationed at a place called Deu Gleddyf – which means “Two Swords” in Welsh, referring to Cyledr’s formidable fighting ability.

Cyledr challenges Culhwch and his companions to battle, and a fierce fight ensues. In the end, Culhwch’s cousin Arthur intervenes and defeats Cyledr in single combat. After defeating Cyledr, Culwch and his companions continue their hunt for Twrch Trwyth.


Note
twll is Welsh, meaning deceit, fraud.


Source
Culhwch and Olwen | Late 11th century