Llantwit Major Dovecot

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 dovecote, dating to the medieval period. A dovecote is a house for doves and pigeons, usually placed at a height above the ground, with openings and provision inside for roosting and breeding. The dovecot stands in a grass field and comprises a circular stone building of well-built, roughly coursed masonry, c. 4m high with a conical top. The conical stone vault survives almost intact as do many of the nest holes and most of the internal facing. Much of what appears to be original plaster dressing is still attached to the outer face. It probably dates to the 13th century.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval agricultural and settlement organisation. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. The structure itself may be expected to contain archaeological information concerning chronology and building techniques.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.