[2] The majority of the chapel was built in the thirteenth century, although parts of it may date back further to the sixth century when Saint Govan, a monk, moved into a cave located on the site of the chapel.

One legend suggests that Saint Govan is buried underneath the chapel's altar, located at the east end of the building.

[4] The slate roof is suspected to be a modern addition compared to the rest of the building.

[7] The chapel was used as a location in episodes 1–3 of the third series of the BBC drama His Dark Materials.

Under the chapel is a huge cave system, Ogof Gofan, containing a "cathedral-like structure", accessible only by abseiling down the cliff.