Prehistoric · Ringwork

Y Gaer

Wales
Cadw SAM GM079
Period
Prehistoric
Site type
Ringwork
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Y Gaer is a prehistoric ringwork situated in Glamorgan, Wales, consisting of a single substantial bank and ditch forming a roughly circular enclosure. The monument dates to the Iron Age and represents a form of defended settlement common to the Welsh prehistoric landscape during the later pre-Roman period. The earthwork survives as a prominent topographical feature, with its defensive characteristics indicating use as a settlement or refuge site for a local community. The site's archaeological significance lies in its preservation of Iron Age settlement patterns and defensive strategies in South Wales.

Y Gaer is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference GM079. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Y Gaer?

Y Gaer is a prehistoric ringwork situated in Glamorgan, Wales, consisting of a single substantial bank and ditch forming a roughly circular enclosure. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference GM079.

What period does Y Gaer date from?

Y Gaer dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a ringwork. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Y Gaer?

Y Gaer 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 GM079.

What other scheduled monuments are near Y Gaer?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including East Orchard Manor House (7.5 km), East Orchard Wood Pillbox (7.9 km), Site of Medieval Mill & Mill Leat Cliffwood (8.2 km).

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