Aber-fan is a small village situated in the county of Glamorgan, Wales. Located approximately 4 miles south of Merthyr Tydfil, it is nestled in the picturesque Taff Valley and surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The village sits at an elevation of 260 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Aber-fan, which means "mouth of the mountain stream" in Welsh, derives its name from its close proximity to the River Taff. The river flows through the village, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The area is known for its natural beauty, attracting visitors who enjoy hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
The village has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. In more recent times, Aber-fan gained prominence due to the coal mining industry that thrived in the region during the 19th and 20th centuries. The village was primarily a mining community, and its economy revolved around the extraction and transportation of coal.
Tragically, Aber-fan also experienced one of the darkest chapters in its history on October 21, 1966, when a coal mining waste tip collapsed, engulfing the village's primary school and nearby houses. This devastating event resulted in the loss of 144 lives, including 116 children. Today, a memorial garden and a memorial hall stand as a somber reminder of the Aber-fan disaster.
Despite this tragic past, Aber-fan has shown resilience and has worked towards rebuilding itself. The village maintains a close-knit community spirit, with active local organizations and a primary school that continues to serve the area. Aber-fan remains a place of natural beauty, historical significance, and a testament to the strength of its people.
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Images are sourced within 2km of 51.692822/-3.3459304 or Grid Reference SO0700. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.
Aber-fan is located at Grid Ref: SO0700 (Lat: 51.692822, Lng: -3.3459304)
Unitary Authority: Merthyr Tydfil
Police Authority: South Wales
Also known as: Aberfan
///slung.herbs.skipped. Near Aberfan, Merthyr Tydfil
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