Full Report for Listed Buildings
Summary Description of a Listed Buildings
Date of Designation
25/04/2000
Date of Amendment
25/04/2000
Name of Property
Monastic Baths
Unitary Authority
Neath Port Talbot
Location
Located on the W bank of the Afon Cwm Bach, on the E side of a track. To the N, the track bends round sharply to the E, over the river, and on to Cwm Maelwg Farm.
Broad Class
Religious, Ritual and Funerary
History
A complete medieval bath house, probably C14-15. Though probably connected with Margam Abbey, it is most likely to have been a baptistry for the local population who worshiped at the nearby Hen Eglwys. However, it is also known as Fynnon Gyffyr (medicinal spring) and it may have been used in earlier times for healing.
Exterior
Rectangular structure of rubble stone with keeled vaulted roof covered in vegetation. The N and W sides are built into the bank, while the S and E sides are free-standing. The ground slopes down sharply to the E towards the Afon Cwm Bach which finally leads into the abbey fishpond (now lake). Shallow pointed arched entrance to S end. Head of narrow raked stones and a triangular keystone, resting on impost blocks. Sockets at spring level, probably for a door or gate. One small lancet window to E side.
Interior
The E window has wide splayed reveals and a stone sill. Wide recess in W wall and bench to N end. L-shaped pool surrounded by paving and with steps leading down from the S end. Water inlet channel to the N.
Reason for designation
Listed grade II* as an unusual and complete survival of a medieval baptistry and holy well.
Cadw : Full Report for Listed Buildings [ Records 1 of 1 ]