Promontory Fort S of Solva Harbour

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 43) and which is located at the end of a ridge or promontory overlooking Solva harbour in a strong naturally well-defended location. The polygonal enclosure measures approximately 75m southwest to northeast by 40m southeast to northwest and is defined by a spread, stony bank, possibly the remains of a wall. The approaches to the enclosure along the ridge are defended on the northeast side by a rock-cut ditch c. 4m wide and 1.5m deep with bank up to 1m high and 6m wide and on the southwest by a bank up to 2m high and 6m wide and external ditch 5m wide and 0.5m deep. The remaining sides well defended by natural slopes are protected by a low bank of c 0.5m high without any trace of a ditch. The entrance is on the northeast corner, approached by an entrance passage-way formed by the overlapping bank of the north side. In the interior two hut circles have been noted on the east and two rectangular structures on the 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, layout, 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.