Hafod Eidos Rural Settlement

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Monument.

The monument is a unique site comprising a large earth platform upon which stands an enclosure measuring 56 x 9m in size defined by large earth and stone banks, 1-2m in width, which survive to at least 1m in height. It is possible that Hafod Eidos was constructed during the medieval period and the monumental form of the structure suggests connections with the nearby Abbey of Strata Florida, possibly as a hafod or summer dwelling for tenants of the Abbey Estate. The platform and enclosure at Hafod Eidos demonstrate antiquity by having two later structures built on top of them, namely a drystone field boundary and a sheepfold, the latter probably being constructed during the 18th or 19th centuries. It is likely that in addition to the earth and stone banked enclosure the site originally held other more fragile structures, evidence for which could have survived beneath the present grass covering.

The site has archaeological importance because of its unique form. The platform is unusually large in size and there are no other known similar sites with which it can be compared. The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval settlement. The site forms an important element within the wider medieval 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.