Pentre Ifan is a prehistoric megalithic tomb located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Known as a cromlech, it is the most popular and well-preserved dolmen in Wales. The structure dates back to around 3500 BC and is a notable example of a burial chamber, typically associated with the Neolithic period. Pentre Ifan consists of a large capstone resting on three upright stones, creating a chamber-like space beneath. It has been a subject of archaeological interest and speculation regarding its original purpose and the people who built it.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
The Tinkinswood Burial Chamber, also known as Castell Carreg, Llech-y-Filiast, or Maes-y-Filiast, is a prehistoric megalithic burial chamber located in the Vale of Glamorgan, near Cardiff, Wales. This Neolithic long barrow dates back to around 6,000 years ago and is particularly notable for its massive capstone, which is one of the largest in Britain. The site was excavated in 1914, revealing human bones, pottery, and flint tools. Tinkinswood has intrigued archaeologists and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the burial practices and beliefs of early farming communities in the region.
Caerwent Roman Town
Caerwent Roman Town, nestled in Monmouthshire, Wales, stands as a testament to Roman urban planning and architecture. Once known as Venta Silurum, it was a bustling market town established by the Romans in the 1st century AD. The town boasts well-preserved ruins, including sections of the town walls, a forum-basilica, and a Romano-British temple. Caerwent offers a unique glimpse into Roman Britain, revealing the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants through the archaeological findings.
Valle Crucis Abbey
Valle Crucis Abbey, nestled in the heart of North Wales, stands as a testament to the region’s medieval religious fervor. Founded in 1201 by Cistercian monks, it was a center of spirituality and agriculture for over three centuries. Despite the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, the abbey’s ruins continue to captivate visitors with their serene beauty and historical significance.
Caerleon Amphitheatre
The Caerleon Amphitheatre, a grand structure nestled in the south of Wales, stands as a testament to the Roman presence in Britain. Known as Isca to the Romans, Caerleon boasts one of the most impressive Roman military remains in Europe. The amphitheatre, often referred to as the ‘Arthurian Round Table’, has sparked the imagination of many. It served as a venue for entertainment and possibly military training for the legion based there. Today, it is a significant archaeological site, offering insights into Roman military life and leisure activities.
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village is a unique archaeological site nestled in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales. It stands out as a significant educational resource and a window into the past, offering insights into the Iron Age period. The site is not only a place of historical interest but also a living history center where visitors can experience the Iron Age way of life. Castell Henllys is one of the few places in Europe where an ancient landscape has been reconstructed on the exact spot where Celtic tribes once lived, making it a rare and invaluable site for both archaeologists and the public.