Defended Enclosure 240m W of Velindre

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 small earthwork defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 43). The enclosure (Item 'A') is located on a moderate W-facing slope. It is sub-oval in shape on plan and measures 55m NE-SW by a maximum of 50m transversely. The enclosure is defined by an outward-facing scarp on the W side, which measures a maximum of 1.3m in height. The slight remains of a counter-scarp bank are also visible. An earthen bank that measures up to 0.3m in height above the interior and 3m in width defines the remainder of the circuit. The external ditch is only visible on aerial photographs, having been almost entirely filled in by cultivation. The location of the entrance is uncertain. Immediately to the W and downslope of the enclosure is a rectangular earthen building platform (Item 'B'), which probably dates to the Medieval period. It measures 0.5m in height, 5m in length (N-S) and 3m in width. The entrance is located on the S side.

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 presence of the building platform suggests that the enclosure was re-used during the medieval period. 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 area to be scheduled comprises the remains described and an area around within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is roughly triangular in shape on plan and measures 90m E-W by 68m transversely.