Maes Llymystyn 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.

Maes Llymystyn Camp is defended by a single 3m high bank and ditch with a counterscarp bank in the west and north. The river provides naturally exploited defences to the south and east. A possible entrance is located in the southwest corner. A C-shaped masonry structure lies on the eastern face of the bank in the south. This may be contemporary with the fort, or may be a later addition related to Llymystyn Hall.

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.