Castell Llwyd

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 defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). It is located on an inland promontory above the Afon Nyfer naturally protected by steep valley sides to the west, south and east falling away by 30m. The approach from the north is defended by two lines of bank and ditch c. 80m long. The inner bank is 3m high internally rising 5m above the ditch, the outer bank, or possibly a counterscarp is 2m high internally and 1.3m externally. The defences stop short on the east side demarcating a simple entrance. The approximately triangular interior measures c 100m north to south by a maximum of70m east to west.

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.