Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral in Bangor has been awarded “The Freedom of the City of Bangor,” the highest honour the City Council can bestow, in recognition of its substantial contributions to the community throughout its long history. The award comes as the city celebrates its 1500th anniversary in 2025.

In a unanimous decision during a recent meeting, Bangor City Council resolved to honour the cathedral with this prestigious civic award, making it the first organization to receive this recognition in over a decade. Previous recipients include the British Broadcasting Corporation, RAF Valley, and David Lloyd George.

The award acknowledges the cathedral’s historical significance and ongoing role in Bangor’s cultural and spiritual life as the city approaches this momentous milestone. Founded by Saint Deiniol in 525 AD, Bangor is recognised as the oldest city in recorded history.

Bishop of Bardsey and Bishop in residence of Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral said, “This is a great honour for the Cathedral community and to receive it during our 1500 anniversary year is a particular joy.

We’re immensely grateful to the City Council for recognising the Cathedral’s contribution to the life of the City for many centuries. We look forward to welcoming visitors, tourists and our regular Cathedral congregation to celebrate our historic anniversary.”

The cathedral will play a central role in the city’s yearlong 1500th anniversary celebrations, which will include numerous high-profile events such as:

  • A live broadcast of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship
  • A brand new musical production titled “Dinas Noddfa / City of Refuge” led by Côr Glanaethwy, named Choir of the World at Llangollen International Eisteddfod.
  • The launch of a new Welsh Church Music CD recorded by Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral Choir
  • The installation of a new icon of Saint Deiniol

Dates for the presentation of the Freedom of the City award will be announced soon.

The 1500th anniversary celebrations will showcase the rich history of Bangor and its cathedral and will also look ahead to the city’s bright future.

Photos: Cadeirlan Deiniol Sant  (Bangor Cathedral)