Scheduled MonumentsWalesDinas Powis Castle
Medieval · Castle

Dinas Powis Castle

Wales
Cadw SAM GM021
Period
Medieval
Site type
Castle
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Dinas Powis Castle is a medieval fortified site located in the Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales, which has evidence of occupation spanning from the early medieval period through the medieval era. The site comprises a ringwork or motte-and-bailey type structure with substantial earthwork defences, positioned prominently on a hilltop commanding views over the surrounding landscape. Archaeological investigation and documentary evidence indicate the castle served as a significant administrative and defensive centre for Norman lords in the region during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. The castle's strategic location and fortifications reflect the establishment of Norman authority in Glamorgan following the conquest of South Wales in the late eleventh century.

Dinas Powis Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM021. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Dinas Powis Castle?

Dinas Powis Castle is a medieval fortified site located in the Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales, which has evidence of occupation spanning from the early medieval period through the medieval era. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM021.

What period does Dinas Powis Castle date from?

Dinas Powis Castle 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 Dinas Powis Castle?

Dinas Powis Castle 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 GM021.

What other scheduled monuments are near Dinas Powis Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Cogan Deserted Medieval Village (2.2 km), Middleton Moated Site (3 km), St Mary's Well Bay Pillbox (4.6 km).

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