Cadw has supported a series of surveys to improve understanding of prehistoric defended enclosures across Wales. Following an initial scoping study by Gwynedd Archaeological Trust, Dyfed Archaeological Trust carried out assessments in Ceredigion (2005–06), Pembrokeshire (2006–07) and Carmarthenshire (2007–08). In Carmarthenshire alone, 214 sites were recorded, including hillforts, promontory forts and smaller defended enclosures, with 46 protected as Scheduled Ancient Monuments. While most of the larger earthworks remain in good condition, many smaller enclosures have deteriorated in recent decades, particularly those only visible as cropmarks. These surveys provide an essential baseline for monitoring and managing some of the county’s most important prehistoric sites.
Related Projects
The Hulks of the Afon Leri, Ynyslas
Excavation
Along the tidal channel of the Afon Leri at Ynyslas lie three hulks—Scheduled Ancient Monuments thought to be 19th-century slate-carrying vessels. Abandoned after the decline of the slate…
View
SCHEDULING ENHANCEMENT PROJECT 2009: MEDIEVAL MINOR DEFENDED SITES
Military
As part of Cadw’s 2007 programme to address under-represented monument types, Dyfed Archaeological Trust evaluated medieval fortified dwellings in the region. The study focused on mottes, moated sites,…
View
MEDIEVAL AND EARLY POST-MEDIEVAL RABBIT WARRENS: A THREAT-RELATED ASSESSMENT 2013
Agricultural
As part of a Cadw-funded threat-related assessment project, Dyfed Archaeological Trust investigated the under-represented site type of medieval and early post-medieval rabbit warrens. Between 2012 and 2013, 87…
View