ME004

Berth Ddu Hut Circles  

 

Designated  

Gwynedd  

Dyffryn Ardudwy  

259089  

322751  

Domestic  

Enclosed hut circle  

Prehistoric  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument comprises the remains of a two round huts, with entrance passage and terraces above and below. Most of the field walls around seem to be on old terraces or field banks; for instance, the E boundary of the next field to the N is on a big terrace, and a badger sett to the W of this may be utilising a smaller one (both outside SA). There are some probable stony terraces within the woodland, to the W, but these are very overgrown. What is probably the lowest of these terraces is only just above the footpath, and well outside the SA. There is a linear gully running W which is traceable on and off down to the path and beyond; this may be the continuation of the walled access path or may be an old stream bed (or both, at different times). 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.