Cefn-Du Camp

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 defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period, (c.800BC – AD74, the Roman Conquest of Wales). Inland promontory forts are usually located on a ridge or spur with steep slopes on two or three sides, and artificial ramparts on the level approaches. Alternatively they may have been constructed on a promontory above the confluence of two rivers, or the bend of a meander.

Cefn Du Camp is defended by multiple ramparts along the northern and western sides. The site is naturally defended to the south and east by the steeply sloping ground. The enclosure measures approximately 100m from north-east to south-west, and is 28m wide. The entrance is located in the north-east. Earthworks at the north-eastern end may represent a motte, constructed during later (medieval period) occupation of the enclosure.

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