Scheduled Monuments- Full Report
Summary Description of a Scheduled Monument
Reference Number
ME235
Name
Afon Arthog cup-marked rock
Date of Designation
28/04/2003
Status
Designated
Location
Unitary Authority
Gwynedd
Community
Arthog
Easting
266241
Northing
313233
Broad Class
Religious, Ritual and Funerary
Site Type
Cup Marked Stone
Period
Prehistoric
Description
Summary Description and Reason for Designation
The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Monument.
The monument comprises a small outcrop of bedrock displaying several prehistoric cupmarks probably dating to the Bronze Age (c.2300 BC - 800 BC). The outcrop is just south of the summit of a low ridge and measures roughly 1.1m in length by 0.8m transversely. At least four definite cupmarks and five possible cupmarks are visible, all measuring roughly 50mm in diameter and 15mm in depth. There are other outcrops or rocks nearby, but none appear to bare other cupmarks.
The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of prehistoric ritual. The monument is a rare and important relic of a prehistoric ritual landscape and retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of further cupmarks better preserved under the turf and forms an important element in the wider prehistoric funerary and ritual landscape.
The scheduled area comprises the remains described and an area around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive. It is circular and measures 10m in diameter.