Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Carreg Cennen
Medieval · Castle

Castell Carreg Cennen

Carmarthenshire, Wales
Cadw SAM CM001
Period
Medieval
Site type
Castle
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Castell Carreg Cennen is a medieval castle occupying a dramatic limestone crag in the Black Mountain range of Carmarthenshire, South Wales. The fortress dates principally to the thirteenth century, with the substantial stone keep and curtain walls representing a significant investment in defensive architecture during the period of Anglo-Norman expansion into South Wales. The castle's elevated position, perched some 300 metres above the Cennen river valley, afforded commanding views across the surrounding terrain and made it a strategically valuable stronghold. The castle underwent modification and reinforcement during the medieval period, and its remains include the central keep, inner ward defences, and outer fortifications that reflect the evolving demands of castle design and garrison requirements.

Castell Carreg Cennen is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference CM001. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Carreg Cennen?

Castell Carreg Cennen is a medieval castle occupying a dramatic limestone crag in the Black Mountain range of Carmarthenshire, South Wales. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference CM001.

What period does Castell Carreg Cennen date from?

Castell Carreg Cennen dates from the medieval period, and is classified as a castle. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Carreg Cennen?

Castell Carreg Cennen is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is CM001.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Carreg Cennen?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Tair Carn Isaf Cairns (2.8 km), Banc Crucorford round cairn (3.2 km), Group of Burnt Mounds 300m SSW of Cilcoll Farm (5.5 km).

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