Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Llansteffan
Medieval · Castle

Castell Llansteffan

Carmarthenshire, Wales
Cadw SAM CM004
Period
Medieval
Site type
Castle
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Castell Llansteffan is a medieval castle occupying a commanding hilltop position overlooking the River Taf estuary in Carmarthenshire. The fortress comprises substantial stone fortifications arranged around a central bailey, with evidence of Norman construction dating from the twelfth century, though the site may have earlier medieval origins. The castle's strategic location controlling access to the river crossing made it significant in the context of Anglo-Norman penetration into South Wales during the medieval period. Substantial portions of the stone defences remain visible today, including sections of curtain walling and earthwork ramparts that testify to its former importance as a defensive stronghold.

Castell Llansteffan is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference CM004. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Llansteffan?

Castell Llansteffan is a medieval castle occupying a commanding hilltop position overlooking the River Taf estuary in Carmarthenshire. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference CM004.

What period does Castell Llansteffan date from?

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

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Llansteffan?

Castell Llansteffan 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 CM004.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Llansteffan?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Fron Ucha Burial Chamber (0.8 km), St Ishmael's Scar Beach Defence Gun House (2.2 km), Is-Coed Standing Stone (3.1 km).

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