Rhyd Uchaf Hillfort

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The monument comprises the remains of a hillfort, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). The hillfort is a small trivallate enclosure which occupies a tiny natural promontory overlooking the Nant yr Eira. The fort is roughly oval in plan, the interior measuring 10m by 11m, and is defended by three lines of banks on its W and S sides and by natural scarp slopes on its NE side. All three lines of banks are of earth and stone construction, and stand to between 0.4m and 1m high. Between each of the banks is a ditch, with an external ditch on the outer edge. The entrance was probably at the eastern end of the enclosure where a narrow passage appears to run along the top of the scarp.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of later prehistoric defensive organisation and settlement. The site forms an important element within the wider later prehistoric context and within the surrounding landscape. The site is well preserved and retains considerable archaeological potential. There is a strong probability of the presence of evidence relating to chronology, building techniques and functional detail.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.