HAILED as the greatest ever Welsh patriot and condemned as an barbaric self-seeker, the legacy of Owain Glyndwr has provoked fierce debate amongst historians for generations.

And that argument is set to be reignited ahead of this summer's Eisteddfod in Newport.

A Welsh historical society is calling for Eisteddfod organisers to commemorate the 600th anniversary of some of the bloodiest battles of Glyndwr's legendary rebellion against the English.

This year marks the anniversary of the Battle of Craig y Dorth, near Trellech where Glyndwr's Welsh army secured one of their most famous victories over the English.

And it is also 600 years since Glyndwr's siege on Newport Castle which caused such extensive damage that the castle was never used again. Now Embassy Glyndwr wants the Eisteddfod to mark the occasion by flying the Glyndwr flag during the week-long festival.

A spokesman for the group said: "Given the fact during 1404, Glyndwr attacked (and made useless thereafter) Newport Castle it would be very fitting if the National Eisteddfod were to fly 'Baneri Glyndwr' over the main pavilion and Eisteddfod office."

But the move has been condemned by Newport councillor William Graham who described Glyndwr as "no friend of Newport."

Mr Graham said: "I would be horrified. Owain Glyndwr was no friend of Newport and I think it would be wholly inappropriate if the Eisteddfod was to commemorate someone who brought so much death and destruction to Newport."

Historian Dr Ray Howell, from the University of Wales College, Newport, said: "There was a considerable amount of support for Glyndwr in Gwent and Glamorgan during the rebellion which surprised many.

"As for his particular role in history, that very much depends on who you talk to. I think commemorating him is a good idea."

A spokesman for the Eisteddfod said: "There are a number of themes we are looking at ahead of this year's festival which would look to celebrate Welsh history."

Major celebrations are being planned in the town of Machynlleth to mark the 600th anniversary of Owain Glyndwr's coronation as Prince of Wales and the formation of the first Welsh parliament.