ME267

Foel Faner Defended Enclosure  

24/03/2010  

Designated  

Gwynedd  

Llanelltyd  

273278  

320441  

Defence  

Enclosure - Defensive  

Prehistoric  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument comprises the well-preserved remains of a small defended enclosure, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 43). The enclosure is located on an isolated rocky hilltop with extensive 360 degree views of the surrounding area. The hilltop summit is enclosed by an earth and stone bank, with a simple narrow entrance gap on the NE. The enclosure bank is most well-preserved on the N side where it has an internal height of some 1.5m and a width of 3m. The bank forms a complete circuit around the summit of the hilltop, enclosing an uneven interior. The interior retains possible evidence of hut circles. Overall the monument measures 80m NE-SW by 52m transversely. 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, layout, building techniques and functional detail. The area scheduled comprises the remains described and an area around, within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is roughly ovoid in shape on plan and measures 100m NE-SW by 72m transversely and is located at NGR SH 7327 2044.