Iys

Iys, also known as Lyonesse, is a legendary sunken land or kingdom, often described as lying off the west coast of Cornwall, England. Ancient tales and folklore speak of Iys as a prosperous and beautiful region that was eventually swallowed by the sea. The exact location and existence of Iys are subjects of myth and legend, with no definitive archaeological evidence to support its physical presence.

The most famous legend associated with Iys tells of its king, Gradlon, and his daughter Dahut. It is said that Dahut, a sorceress, was responsible for the kingdom's destruction. In some versions, she opened the sea gates, flooding the land to escape her father's wrath. In others, the kingdom's wickedness angered God, leading to its submersion. King Gradlon is often depicted as escaping the disaster, sometimes with the help of Saint Guénolé.

The story of Iys has been preserved through various medieval texts, including Arthurian romances and Breton folklore. It has captured the imagination of writers and artists for centuries, becoming a recurring motif in literature and art that explores themes of lost civilizations, divine retribution, and the power of the sea. While considered mythical, the legend of Iys continues to be a significant part of the cultural heritage of Cornwall and Brittany.