Devil's Bridge

Devil's Bridge is the name of a small village east of the tourist town of Aberystwyth, deep in the hills of Cardiganshire (Ceredigeon - Welsh), but this little village is also home to a famous bridge which gives the village it's name, it's of course called 'Devil's Bridge'. Walking down the steep steps called 'Jacob's Ladder' that clings to the rocks face you descend deeper and deeper into the narrow ravine amongst the grey wet rocks which are sprayed by the falling waterfall and shaded away from the sun amongst the dense trees and shrubs that cluster high above stopping the sun seeping too much light into this narrow gauge, here you would stand on the steps focusing your gaze on the three unusual bridges that cut across the gap between the rocks,

The bridge is at the exact point where you would see the river Mynach drop about 90 meters (300 feet) bashing into the swirling waters of the Devil's cauldron before it meets the river Rheidol where it eventually gushes under the bridge, but the bridge itself is a few hundred feet up away from the thrashing white and brown water of the river.

There are three bridges to be seen, the top one was built in modern times, an iron bridge that was built in 1901 which is also where the road passes over the drop today, the middle bridge was built in 1753 which used the original bridge (Devil's Bridge) to support the scaffolding during the construction, finally we come to Devil's Bridge, squashed between the two towering cliffs, under the two newer bridges, this bridge was built in the 11th century.

But what is strange about this bridge is the fact that it would of been impossible for a mortal man to construct such a bridge in those times, especially with a few hundred feet drop to the bottom which would certainly kill anyone who was to fall. Welsh legends say that this bridge was actually built by the Devil himself.

The Legend of the Devil's Bridge

Around the 11th Century, the Devil visited Wales as he had never been before and he had heard that the scenery was breathtaking. He soon came across an old lady who seemed upset. "What's the matter?" he asked out of curiosity.

"Oh, I'm in such a terrible muddle and I don't knowwhat to do! My cow has wandered across the river and I can't get her back".

"Ah!" said the Devil "What you need my dear, is a bridge, and I am just the man to build you one. Why don't you go home, and in the morning there will be a bridge waiting for you. All I ask in return is to keep the first living thing to cross the bridge!"

"Okay then" she said "It's a bargain. I'll see you in the morning. Nos Da, Goodnight".

That night she wondered about the stranger who would build her a bridge. "Wht a strange request! Why should I cross the bridge to get my cow back if he gets to keep me in exchange? Mind you it is very tempting offer".

The next day she got up and called for her faithful dog. Together they went down the river. "Well well" she couldn't believe her eyes. In front of her was the best bridge that she had ever seen! I told you that I would build you a bridge" said the Devil appearing from nowhere.

"Now it's your turn to keep your side of the bargain",

"I know, you get to keep the first living thing to cross the bridge" and she started to walk towards the bridge. But just when she got to the entrance, she stopped, took out a loaf of bread from her apron pocket and hurled it across the bridge. As quick as a flash and before the Devil could stop it, the dog chased after it. 'Aaaaaaagh!!!!!" screeched the Devil. "You stupid old woman, I don't believe it! Your smelly, hairy farm dog has become the first living thing to cross my bridge. It's no good to me" he screamed and then he vanished.

Well, the Devil was never seen in Wales again as he was so embarrassed at being outwitted by the old lady.

The Legend of Devil's Bridge was from the www.devilsbridgefalls.co.uk website.