Scheduled Monuments- Full Report
Summary Description of a Scheduled Monument
Reference Number
MG044
Name
Mathrafal Castle
Date of Designation
Status
Designated
Location
Unitary Authority
Powys
Community
Llangyniew
Easting
313159
Northing
310790
Broad Class
Defence
Site Type
Castle
Period
Medieval
Description
Summary Description and Reason for Designation
The following provides a general description of the scheduled ancient monument.
The monument comprises the remains of a motte and bailey castle, a military stronghold built during the medieval period. A motte and bailey castle comprises a large conical or pyramidal mound of soil or stone (the motte) surrounded by, or adjacent to, one or more embanked enclosures (the bailey). Both may be surrounded by wet or dry ditches and could be further strengthened with palisades, revetments, and/or a tower on top of the motte. Mathrafal consists of an impressive series of rectangular defences set around the motte, with further protection afforded by the River Banwy to the east . Excavations suggest these rectangular defences were the result of 13th century refashioning and enlargement of earlier curving defences.
The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval defensive organisation. The well-preserved monument forms an important element within the wider medieval context and the structure itself may be expected to contain archaeological information 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.