GM309

Capel Gwladys  

14/05/1966  

Designated  

Caerphilly  

Darran Valley  

312497  

199297  

Religious, Ritual and Funerary  

Chapel  

Early Medieval  

The following provides a general description of the scheduled monument. The monument comprises the remains of a medieval chapel located on the open moorland of Gelligaer Common. Rectangular foundations measuring approx. 12m x 5.75m are set in a sub-rectangular churchyard enclosure. The visible foundations have been recently restored and a cross has been placed on the site of the altar. There is a reference to the site in the 12th century Life of St Gwynllyw (Chapter 8) in a context which implies that is was already of some antiquity at that date. The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of the organization and practice of medieval Christianity. The site forms an important element within the wider medieval 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 scheduled area comprises the remains described and area around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.