Llandygwydd Defended Enclosure

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Monument.

The monument, also known as Gaer, comprises an earthwork platform, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC to AD 74, the Roman invasion of Wales). It is located at the crest of a NW-facing slope at the edge of a hilltop plateau. The earthwork is roughly circular in shape and resembles a truncated cone in profile. It measures a maximum of 1.5m in height and 40m in diameter at its base. It narrows to 28m across the top of the platform, which is concavely dished. Geophysical survey has revealed the defences to consist of a bank (still visible as an earthwork) and an outer ditch (now not visible above-ground). The survey also suggested a possible entranceway on the northwest side.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of later prehistoric defensive organisation. It forms an important element within the wider later prehistoric context and within the surrounding landscape. Although the site lies under improved pasture, much archaeological potential remains; both the interior and rampart may be expected to contain archaeological information concerning chronology, building techniques and functional detail.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and an area around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is sub-circular in shape on plan and measures 62m in diameter.