Scheduled Monuments- Full Report
Summary Description of a Scheduled Monument
Reference Number
ME196
Name
Maes Coch Deserted Rural Settlement
Date of Designation
16/04/2003
Status
Designated
Location
Unitary Authority
Gwynedd
Community
Dolgellau
Easting
274355
Northing
315335
Broad Class
Domestic
Site Type
Rectangular hut settlement
Period
Medieval
Description
Summary Description and Reason for Designation
The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument.
The monument comprises a well-preserved and largely intact example of a deserted medieval settlement represented by four rectangular platforms cut into the hill slope. Platform I measures 11m by 6m, platform II 18m by 9m, platform III 12m by 5m and platform IV 11m by 8m.
The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval settlement. The site forms an important element in a wider medieval and post-medieval upland landscape. The scheduled area may be expected to contain a wide range of archaeological information, including chronological detail and evidence in regard to construction techniques and agricultural methods. There is a strong probability of the presence of intact palaeo-environmental remains and preserved medieval ground surfaces below the monuments. Rectangular huts may be part of a larger cluster of settlement and their importance can be further enhanced by their group value.
The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.