Ports and harbours have long been central to the history of south Wales, but their archaeological potential is not well understood. This Cadw-funded project assessed the survival of maritime remains at four key historic ports — Chepstow, Newport, Cardiff, and Swansea. By combining historic maps, documentary sources, and GIS mapping, researchers identified areas of high potential, particularly around riverbanks and waterfronts where evidence of activity from the prehistoric period onwards may survive. The results highlight the vulnerability of these sites to modern development and provide a framework for managing and conserving this important maritime heritage.
