PE172

Castell Mawr  

05/04/1950  

Designated  

Pembrokeshire  

Eglwyswrw  

211870  

237768  

Defence  

Hillfort  

Prehistoric  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument comprises the remains of a hillfort with a double bank and ditch, which probably dates to the Iron Age period (c. 800 BC - AD 74, the Roman conquest of Wales). The interior is divided by a bank 1.3 metres high on the east and 2 metres high on the west. Hillforts are usually Iocated on hilltops and surrounded by a single or multiple earthworks of massive proportions. Hillforts must have formed symbols of power within the landscape, while their function may have had as much to do with ostentation and display as defence. 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. It is circular and measures approximately 180 metres N-S and 200 metres E-W.