Manorbier Dovecot

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The monument consists of the remains of a dovecote, dating to the medieval period. A dovecote is a house for doves and pigeons, usually placed at a height above the ground, with openings and provision inside for roosting and breeding.

Belonging to the medieval estate of the de Barri family of Manorbier Castle. This is the best-preserved circular dovecote with a domed rood surviving in South Wales. Measured 6m diameter and standing 8m high it is built in rubble sandstone. Small door on the eastern side gives access to the interior. Tiers of rows of nest boxes, which curve into the masonry, survive. The dome has a hole at its centre to give the pigeons access.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval agricultural and settlement organisation. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. The structure itself may be expected to contain archaeological information concerning chronology and building techniques.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.