Gilfach y Dwn Fawr Defended Enclosure

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Monument.

The monument comprises the remains of a small hillfort, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). It is located on the summit of a prominent outcrop that is defended by naturally steep slopes, particularly on the NW and SE sides. The hillfort is oval in shape and measures 150m NE-SW by 100m transversely. The outcrop is defended by a bank around the base of the weaker S-facing slope. Further upslope, a second bank flanks a SW-facing inturned entrance. The NE side is defined by a substantial cut terrace. At least nine hut platforms are visible on the SW facing slope between the entrance and the summit.

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 an area around within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is an irregular polygon in shape on plan and measures 238m NE-SW by 118m transversely.