Description
Book SynopsisMoel-y-Gaer (Bodfari) is the northernmost of a series of hillforts atop the Clwydian hills in north-eastern Wales. Nine seasons of survey and excavation have revealed details of Moel-y-Gaer’s ramparts, entrances and interior. This small hillfort started with a single rampart, later to be enlarged on the western side with an extra rampart and ditch. The second phase rampart was constructed of dry-stone walling and increased in width at least once. It was shown to be very different in character to the earlier rampart. An early western entrance was no longer used in the later phase, which saw the construction of an inturned entrance to the north. There is little evidence for occupation within the enclosure although a single roundhouse was constructed facing the northern entrance. Radiocarbon dating establishes all the second phase activity within the Middle Iron Age with the first phase rampart being somewhat earlier. Discussion situates Moel-y-Gaer (Bodfari) within current understandings of the later prehistoric settlement record for north-eastern Wales paying particular attention to hillforts.
Trade Review‘The book is organised into ten crafted sections that cover the context of the site, the results of the initial survey and excavation, followed by specialist reports. Beautifully illustrated, it provides the reader with a fascinating account of the fieldwork and post-excavation programmes. It is a must-buy for anyone interested in the archaeology of Iron Age Britain.’ – George Nash (2022): Current Archaeology Issue 392
Table of ContentsIntroduction ;
Survey –
John Pouncett ;
Excavation ;
Environmental –
Michael J. Allen and Alan J. Clapham ;
Radiocarbon dating and chronological modelling –
Derek Hamilton ;
The Spindle whorls ;
Discussion ;
Conclusion ;
Artists in residence ;
Community involvement ;
References