NIGHTBRINGER | The Arthurian Encyclopedia

Kyle


The term “Kyle” is used in various contexts in Scotland, particularly in the names of regions or areas, and is used to describe areas located along the western coast of Scotland, particularly in Ayrshire. There are two main regions known as North Kyle and South Kyle.

It originally belonged to Sir Galleron, but Arthur annexed it and gave it to Gawain. Galleron arrived at a feast and challenged Gawain for ownership of the land. The fight ended in a draw, but Gawain graciously returned the country to Galleron anyway.


Kyle | 0 to the 9th century

The history of the Kyle regions is part of the broader history of the region, which was inhabited by various tribes and peoples during this period.

Pre-Roman and Roman Period | Before 1st century to 5th century AD
Prior to the Roman invasion of Britain in the first century AD, the region of Kyle was inhabited by Celtic tribes, including the Damnonii. During the Roman occupation, which began in the first century AD, this part of Scotland was part of the Roman province of Britannia. The Romans established forts and roads in the area.

Early Medieval Period | 5th to 8th centuries AD
As the Roman Empire began to withdraw from Britain in the early fifth century, the indigenous Celtic peoples of the region, influenced by Celtic Christianity, played a role in shaping the local culture and religious practices. The arrival of Anglo-Saxon and Irish settlers in neighboring regions had an impact on the cultural and political landscape of southwestern Scotland. The transition from Roman rule to the early medieval period marked a time of significant social and political change in the region.

Kingdom of Strathclyde | 6th to 11th centuries AD
By the sixth century AD, the Kingdom of Stratchclyde, a Brittonic kingdom, emerged as a major political entity in the southwestern part of what is now Scotland. The Kingdom of Strathclyde included parts of the Kyle regions. The Kingdom of Strathclyde had cultural ties to the Celtic Britons and maintained its own distinct identity. Christianity continued to spread in the region during this period, with the establishment of churches and monastic communities.

Viking Invasions | 8th to 10th centuries AD
Like other parts of Scotland, the Kyle regions experienced Viking raids and invasions during the Viking Age. Viking influence led to cultural and social changes, including the integration of Norse elements into the local culture and language.


Source
The Awntyrs off Arthure at the Terne Wathelyn | Late 14th century