CD074

Castell Nantperchellan  

16/06/1949  

Designated  

Ceredigion  

Cardigan  

217313  

243332  

Monument  

Enclosure  

Prehistoric  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument comprises the remains of a defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). Inland promontory forts are usually located on a ridge or spur with steep slopes on two or three sides, and artificial ramparts on the level approaches. Castell Nantperchellan is a roughly rectangular promontory enclosure, occupying the butt-end of a south-facing ridge above the confluence of two local streams, and measuring c.52m north-east to south-west. It is defined by a rampart and ditch to the north and east, facing onto rising ground, whilst steep natural slopes complete the circuit on the south and western sides. 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 site is well preserved and retains considerable archaeological potential. There is a strong probability of the presence of evidence relating to chronology, building techniques and functional detail. The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.