Since the 1980s, aerial photography has identified over 55 crop-marked enclosures in south Ceredigion and several more in north Pembrokeshire, many of them rectangular in form. As little or no earthwork evidence survives, geophysical and topographic surveys were undertaken in 2004–05 to investigate their character. While surface traces were slight, the surveys revealed significant below-ground archaeology, including circular gullies, hearths, post-holes and internal divisions, strongly suggesting settlement activity comparable to Iron Age defended sites. The distinctive group of rectangular enclosures remains unusual in the region, and their exact date and function continue to be the subject of ongoing research.
Related Projects
Llandeilo Roman Forts
Excavation
Archaeological investigations in Dinefwr Park, Llandeilo, revealed two superimposed Roman forts along with roads, a vicus (civilian settlement), and a possible bathhouse. Geophysical survey and excavation, carried out…
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A SURVEY OF DEFENDED ENCLOSURES IN CARMARTHENSHIRE, 2007-08
Monuments and Landscapes
This gazetteer brings together the results of a Cadw-funded survey of defended enclosures in Carmarthenshire. Compiled by Dyfed Archaeological Trust, it records hillforts, promontory forts, and smaller enclosures…
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MEDIEVAL AND EARLY POST MEDIEVAL FISH TRAPS
This Cadw-funded project assessed the potential for adding medieval and early post-medieval fish trap sites to the schedule of ancient monuments in Dyfed, where such monuments are currently…
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