Description

This monument comprises the remains of a burial chamber probably dating to the Neolithic. Situated on a level limestone plateau, the burial chamber lies 1.5km from the coast.

The main feature of this monument is the huge capstone which measures 5.5m by 4.8m, over one metre thick and weighing approximately 25 tons. It appears to be lying on the ground, however it covers quite a high chamber, mainly dug into the rock, and surrounded by a number of rough supporting stones which raise the capstone only about 0.5m above the ground. The entrance was probably through the widest gap on the eastern side.

The monument was excavated in 1909 and was found to contain two groups of un-burnt burials separated by a paving of flat stones. Between 15-30 individuals were represented, and pieces of broken Beaker and Grooved Ware pottery with the bones suggested that the monument had been built towards the end of the Neolithic period.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of prehistoric burial and ritual practices. The burial chamber is an important relic of a prehistoric funerary and ritual landscape. It retains significant archaeological potential and there is a strong probability of the presence of burial, ritual or structural evidence. The scheduled area comprises the remains described and an area around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.

Source: Cadw