Gelli-nedd 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). Gelli-nedd is a small oval shaped univallate hillfort which stands on a prominent rocky outcrop between the Afon Nedd and Afon Mellte valleys. The W side of the enclosure is formed by precipitous natural cliffs, while a large rampart constructed from limestone rubble extends around the other three sides. The rampart stands 0.9m high on the inside and up to 3m high on the outside and there is a rock cut ditch up to 1.3m deep on the N side. The entrance to the hillfort is on the NE side and comprises a 3m wide gap in the rampart. The interior of the hillfort meaures 60m NW/SE by 45m and slopes gently from E to W. Two circular hut scoops were identified in the W half of the site during a survey in 1976. Immediately to the S of the hillfort is a large earthen mound, circular in plan and 17m in diameter. It is of unknown origin but may be related to the use of the hillfort.

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.