Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Trefilan
Medieval · Motte

Castell Trefilan

Ceredigion, Wales
Cadw SAM CD077
Period
Medieval
Site type
Motte
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Castell Trefilan is a motte situated in Ceredigion, Wales, representing Norman military expansion into the region during the twelfth century. The site comprises an earthen mound characteristic of early medieval fortification, constructed to command local territory and serve as a defensive stronghold. Its location within Ceredigion reflects the pattern of Norman castle-building that penetrated into Welsh lands following the Norman Conquest, though the precise date of construction and the extent of any later modifications remain subjects of archaeological study. The monument survives as an important example of motte-and-bailey fortification type, documented under the Cadw heritage protection scheme.

Castell Trefilan is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference CD077. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Trefilan?

Castell Trefilan is a motte situated in Ceredigion, Wales, representing Norman military expansion into the region during the twelfth century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference CD077.

What period does Castell Trefilan date from?

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

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Trefilan?

Castell Trefilan 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 CD077.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Trefilan?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Pen Clawdd-Mawr Defended Enclosure (1.9 km), Castell Cwmere (3.1 km), Cribyn Clottas (5.8 km).

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