Tir-cyd Deserted Rural Settlement

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

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

The monument consists of the remains of a deserted rural settlement, probably dating to the medieval or post-medieval period. The site comprises three buildings built on a natural relatively flat shelf which looks down on the valley to the SE. The building foundations are visible as earth and stone structures resting on earth platforms set at ninety degrees to the prevailing slope.

Tir-cyd platform (SN 9302 3766) comprises a platform hut resting on a substantial earthen platform with a large fan and apron. It measures 26.4m by 11.5m. The building has been constructed using large stones, some up to 1.5m long. It has been partially robbed but where there are gaps between the stones there are clear earth wall foundations.

Tir-cyd long hut I (SN 9302 3773) comprises a fine long hut surviving as low stone foundations set on a sloping platform. The structure measures 10.9m by 5.2m. Particularly large stones have been used in its construction, especially at the corners. There is a possible internal dividing wall towards the eastern end.

Tir-cyd long hut II (SN 9302 3775) measures 7.7m by 5.1m and comprises a structure defined by walls constructed from large slabs, many set upright to create walls with both internal and external facing. The interior is sloping and there is an entrance on the NE side facing on to a boundary back which could be a later feature.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval or post-medieval settlement organisation. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. A deserted rural settlement may be part of a larger cluster of monuments and their importance can further enhanced by their group value.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is rectangular with sides measuring 150m x 50m.