Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Olwen
Prehistoric · Hillfort

Castell Olwen

Ceredigion, Wales
Cadw SAM CD161
Period
Prehistoric
Site type
Hillfort
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Castell Olwen is a prehistoric hillfort situated in Ceredigion, Wales, designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM CD161). The site dates to the Iron Age and comprises a substantial earthwork defence consisting of multiple banks and ditches that would have enclosed and protected a settlement on elevated terrain. The monument represents the typical defensive architecture of its period, when such fortified hilltop positions served strategic and communal functions across Wales and the broader British landscape. The physical remains visible today reflect the substantial effort invested in its construction and maintenance during the Iron Age period.

Castell Olwen is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference CD161. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Olwen?

Castell Olwen is a prehistoric hillfort situated in Ceredigion, Wales, designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM CD161). It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference CD161.

What period does Castell Olwen date from?

Castell Olwen dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a hillfort. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Olwen?

Castell Olwen 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 CD161.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Olwen?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Lampeter Pillbox (1.5 km), Caer Pencarreg (5.1 km), Llanwnnen Ring Motte (5.1 km).

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