Gaiman is a charming town in the Chubut Province of Patagonia, known for its deep-rooted Welsh heritage. Located in the lower valley of the Chubut River—called Dyffryn Camwy in Welsh—it lies about 15 kilometers west of Trelew. With a population of 6,627 recorded in the 2010 census, Gaiman remains one of the most culturally significant settlements in Y Wladfa Gymreig, the Welsh colony in Argentina.

The town was founded in 1874 by David D. Roberts and was granted municipal status in 1885. The arrival of the Central Chubut Railway in 1908 connected Gaiman to Trelew, further strengthening its role in the region. The construction of the Gaiman Train Tunnel in 1914 marked a key period in its development, as the railway extended to Las Plumas (Dôl y Plu in Welsh). Despite modern influences, Welsh traditions have endured, and many residents still speak Welsh alongside Spanish.

Gaiman is a center for Welsh culture in Patagonia, hosting the annual youth *Eisteddfod* every September, a festival celebrating Welsh poetry, music, and literature. The Museo Histórico Regional, housed in the former railway station, preserves the town’s rich history and the legacy of the Welsh settlers. Several historic Welsh Protestant chapels, including the prominent Capel Bethel, continue to serve as reminders of the strong religious traditions that shaped the community.

One of Gaiman’s most famous attractions is its Welsh teahouses, where visitors can experience an authentic Welsh tea ritual featuring traditional cakes, breads, and pastries. These establishments are a testament to the lasting influence of Welsh culture and are a favorite stop for both locals and tourists. The town also offers access to nearby natural attractions, such as the Bryn Gwyn Paleontological Park, just 10 kilometers to the south, which provides a fascinating look into Patagonia’s prehistoric past.

Despite its small size, Gaiman remains a key symbol of Welsh-Argentine identity, where language, traditions, and history continue to thrive in the heart of Patagonia.