Dan-y-Lan Camp

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

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

The monument comprises the remains of a hillfort, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). Hillforts are usually located on hilltops and surrounded by a single or multiple earthworks of massive proportions. Hillforts must have formed symbols of power within the landscape, while their function may have had as much to do with ostentation and display as defence.

Dan-y-lan is situated on the steep northern slope of the hill overlooking the Loughor Estuary. Defended by a single bank and ditch, the earthworks are oval in plan about 50m long from east-west by 30m wide. The northern side is formed by a natural edge, the southern side comprises a massive bank 12m wide at the base and nearly 3m high internally and 1.5m externally. A slighter continuation of the bank can be traced round either end of the enclosure. The position of the entrance is uncertain.

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 areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.