Competitors travel to the eisteddfod from all over the world

The Llangollen International Eisteddfod was shortlisted by peace envoy Terry Waite.

The eisteddfod attracts thousands of visitors and competitors from dozens of countries.

It was announced on Friday that the prize went to Kenyan tree planter Wangari Maatha, the first African woman to win.

The award, which also includes a �700,000 prize, was created by Alfred Nobel, and was first awarded in 1901.

Nobel, who invented dynamite and set up laboratories and firms around the world, left money to set up the prize in his will before he died in 1896.

There's a great sense of anticipation Nigel Davies, Llangollen eisteddfod spokesman

It is often used to promote the efforts of campaigners for peace, human rights and democracy.

The former Beirut hostage Terry Waite was closely involved in the Llangollen International Eisteddfod in 2002, when he was made its president for the day.

Established in 1947, the eisteddfod is one of the highlights of the Welsh cultural calendar and attracts more than 6,500 competitors from 47 countries each year.

"For the eisteddfod to be nominated is a tremendous honour," said spokesman Nigel Davies before the winner was announced.

Terry Waite nominated the eisteddfod

"We've been nominated for the ethos of the eisteddfod and that's remained through to the current day - it brings people together," he added.

Mr Davies said the eisteddfod's unique atmosphere was evident this year when competitors from Russia and Chechnya appeared on stage together, despite violence and discord between the two countries.

A record number of nominations were put forward for this year's Nobel Peace Prize.

Last year's winner was Iranian lawyer Shirin Ebadi, who became the first Muslim woman to be awarded it.