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<< Our Photo Pages >> Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) - Passage Grave in Wales in Anglesey

Submitted by TimPrevett on Sunday, 30 October 2022  Page Views: 43683

Neolithic and Bronze AgeSite Name: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) Alternative Name: Barclodiad y Gawres, The Giantess's Apronful
Country: Wales County: Anglesey Type: Passage Grave
Nearest Town: Holyhead  Nearest Village: Rhosneigr
Map Ref: SH32907074  Landranger Map Number: 114
Latitude: 53.207388N  Longitude: 4.503541W
Condition:
5Perfect
4Almost Perfect
3Reasonable but with some damage
2Ruined but still recognisable as an ancient site
1Pretty much destroyed, possibly visible as crop marks
0No data.
-1Completely destroyed
 4 Ambience:
5Superb
4Good
3Ordinary
2Not Good
1Awful
0No data.
 5 Access:
5Can be driven to, probably with disabled access
4Short walk on a footpath
3Requiring a bit more of a walk
2A long walk
1In the middle of nowhere, a nightmare to find
0No data.
 4 Accuracy:
5co-ordinates taken by GPS or official recorded co-ordinates
4co-ordinates scaled from a detailed map
3co-ordinates scaled from a bad map
2co-ordinates of the nearest village
1co-ordinates of the nearest town
0no data
 5

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I have visited· I would like to visit

spanchez lichen MargaretGrant Couplands would like to visit

Choopsie visited on 8th Aug 2020 - their rating: Amb: 5 Access: 3 A lovely walk to the spot and around it the beautiful coastal views. It wasn’t open when we visited and only after did I find it has open days via https://cadw.gov.wales/open-doors-barclodiad-y-gawres-burial-chamber which looks after it’s magnificence. I took some videos of what I could see. As you get up close to the gate a light comes on which highlights some of the rock art but not greatly. You really need a key from the local shop or an open day. Still, an amazing piece of history. I’m in awe of every new find! I found a great app called What3Words and the location for this monument is ///elaborate.hillside.bulldozer If you copy this into the app it will provide the exact location. Fantastic!

cactus_chris visited on 20th Aug 2019 - their rating: Cond: 5 Amb: 5 Access: 4

elad13 visited on 23rd Jun 2019 - their rating: Cond: 4 Amb: 4 Access: 3

bishop_pam visited on 30th May 2019 - their rating: Cond: 5 Amb: 5 Access: 4

Catrinm visited on 22nd Apr 2019 - their rating: Access: 4 Updated key info. 2019 Key can be accessed strictly 12 to 4 weekends and bank holidays from Spar shop at Junction with Rhosneigr road. We found it difficult to get this information until we arrived at 10 so hopefully useful to others. ****Updated key information August 2020 - the key is no longer held at wayside Stores and visits only possible on an official Cadw trip apparently.****

cactus_chris visited on 22nd Jun 2018 - their rating: Cond: 5 Amb: 5 Access: 4

pickle1984 visited on 29th Mar 2012 - their rating: Cond: 4 Amb: 3 Access: 4 Good site, with amazing views. Just a shame you cannot get access without a key.

whitemere visited on 29th Oct 2010 - their rating: Cond: 5 Amb: 4 Access: 4 Due to some visitors not returning the key you now have to book & a guide will come & let you in, they only allow 'tours' at weekends & you need to contact them before you arrive. The phone numbers: 01407810153, ask for Keith.. We booked but waited over an hour for him to come and let us in. Take a torch! Well worth a visit.

jeffrep visited on 10th May 2009 - their rating: Cond: 4 Amb: 5 Access: 4

SteveC visited on 20th Oct 2008 - their rating: Cond: 5 Amb: 5 Access: 4 Need key to enter the site. Must return when I can get access

Twistytwirly visited - their rating: Cond: 4 Amb: 4 Access: 3

coin visited - their rating: Cond: 3 Amb: 2 Access: 4

Tonnox TheCaptain mark_a PAB DrewParsons guile nicoladidsbury sem TimPrevett have visited here

Average ratings for this site from all visit loggers: Condition: 4.4 Ambience: 4.27 Access: 3.75

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : A look at the dolmen, which is the top of the cruciform section, inside Barclodiad. As with many dolmens, the capstone almost seems precariously placed. (Vote or comment on this photo)
A Cruciform Passage Grave heavily decorated with rock art in Anglesey. This outstanding location, which translates as Giantess Apronful (another being situated near Conwy), is NW of Aberffraw and S Rhosneigr, off the A4080.

Easy parking access, and a 10 minute or so walk along the coast (you might even see some surfers at Porth Trecastell cove below!) brings you to the concrete capped chamber overlooking the Irish Sea.

A torch is imperative if you visit, but my eyes did adjust quite well after about ¼ hour, enough to be able to pick out some of the rock art.

Spirals & Chevrons abound similar to art at Newgrange in Ireland, if I remember correctly. Offerings had been left on the stone with spirals. There is also a full scale replica of the inside of the chamber at the Oriel Ynys Mon in Llangefni.

Note re: key access, this is now only available on organised trips or open days with CADW.

Note: A megalithic musical tale for Samhain, and to mark the release of Y-Gawres (The Giantess) from Sister Wives. True megaraks will immediately know where Y-Gawres is from. More in our Music Inspired by Ancient Sites Mega Thread (scroll down the page)
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Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Aerial-Cam : As part of our wet weather plan for a recent research trip to Anglesey, we spent some time in the shelter of the bunker over the chamber and practiced the 'painting with light' technique for photographing the Rock Art. With some very good digital equipment we got some great results. (6 comments - Vote or comment on this photo)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : 4th Photo (Vote or comment on this photo)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by enkidu41 : SH 328708 Spectacularly sited on the cliff tops above Porth Trecastell this cruciform passage grave is now covered by a concrete cap. 5 of the wallstones of the chamber are covered with spirals, chevrons, zigzags and wavy lies in common with Irish tombs. (2 comments - Vote or comment on this photo)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Antonine : Re-visited Summer 2021 (Vote or comment on this photo)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Aerial-Cam : Decorated stone at the rear of the north east chamber of the Barclodiad y Gawres Passage Grave (ANG 4). Note the 4 large spirals with a smaller rounded square spiral above left and possibly another faint motif next to that. Photographed during a research trip to Anglesey 11th September 2004. (3 comments - Vote or comment on this photo)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by jeffrep : Decorated Stone, Interior, Barclodiad y Gawres, Anglesey, Wales. (6 comments)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Robc : SH 46239, 66928 One of the five decorated stones inside this reconstructed passage grave.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : 3rd Photo (1 comment)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Bladup : Barclodiad-y-Gawres.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Bladup : Barclodiad-y-Gawres rock art.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by jeffrep : Site in Anglesey (Sir Ynys Mon) Wales: Entrance to Barclodiad y Gawres, Anglesey, Wales.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : The entrance to Barclodiad Y Gawres; these stones lead to the padlocked gate, and by themselves are a worthy visit for any megarak. What they lead to is unmissable. From this entrance, at least four stones are missing. (1 comment)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : Barclodiad Y Gawres Burial Chamber SH329707 Visited Saturday 24th and Monday 25th September 2000 This outstanding location, another Giantess Apronful (another being situated near Conwy), is NW of Aberffraw and S Rhosneigr, off the A4080. Easy parking access, and a 10 minute or so walk along the coast (you might even see some surfers at Porth Trecastell cove below!) brings you to the concr... (2 comments)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Bladup : Barclodiad-y-Gawres rock art.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by DrewParsons : The mound is set on a promontory overlooking the sea a short walk from the car park and road. September 2010.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by DrewParsons : The entrance to the site. September 2010. (4 comments)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by guile : J.E. Griffiths, F.L.S., F.R.A.S., "Portfolio of Photographs of the Cromlechs of Anglesey and Carnarvonshire 1900" (2 comments)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by raythemapman : Site in Anglesey (Sir Ynys Mon): After a visit to Porth Trecastell Fort and Barclodiad-y- Gawres Chambered Cairn ,we decided to have our packed lunch on the beach.With the Fort to the left and the cairn to the right ,one could imagine Ancient people gathering shells and Fishing close to shore. Maybe a Boat bringing settlers from Ireland.A picture book location.Oct 2008.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by hailstones : I was on an ARAP field trip researching rock art in Anglesey with Archaeology Safaris where i took photo's inside BYG. It was not until after the trip that this picture came to light as it was so dark inside. As Adam has posted the information i feel that i can now post my picture of the peck marks. All other info has been posted up so i don't need to repeat myself

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by Aerial-Cam : Adam Stanford recording the pecked design onto clear film for later analysis. Photo by George Nash. Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) 7th March 2006. See accompanying article HERE

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by nicoladidsbury : Sun set from Barclodiad-y-Gawres The sunset was marvelous, but I kicked myself for not having the key to get through the iron gates and into the chamber. (2 comments)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by sem : The Giantess's Apronfull.Legend says this site was created by a giantess dropping stones from here apron.Reality has made it worse by putting a concrete bunker over her lost stones. (1 comment)

Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by TimPrevett : 2nd Photo

Bunnies in Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)
Bunnies in Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) submitted by bunnies : With my son after being enveloped by a beam of light twice in one day!

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Nearby sites listing. In the following links * = Image available
 134m NNW 331° Mynydd Bach* Round Cairn (SH32847086)
 376m ESE 110° Porth Trecastell* Hillfort (SH33257060)
 556m E 97° Trecastell Farm (Llanfaelog) Sculptured Stone (SH33457065)
 3.5km NNE 24° Ty Newydd (Llanfaelog)* Chambered Tomb (SH34437387)
 3.6km SE 139° Trwyn Du* Cairn (SH352679)
 4.6km NNE 34° Bodfeddan Inscribed Stone* Standing Stone (Menhir) (SH356745)
 5.6km ESE 103° St Cadwaladr (Llangadwaladr)* Early Christian Sculptured Stone (SH38376927)
 6.2km NNW 336° Llyn Cerrig Bach* Natural Stone / Erratic / Other Natural Feature (SH30607650)
 6.9km ENE 73° Din Dryfol* Chambered Tomb (SH3956572490)
 7.1km NE 41° A55 Erratic* Natural Stone / Erratic / Other Natural Feature (SH3774475886)
 7.2km NW 306° Borthwen Beach* Chambered Tomb (SH2714975151)
 7.3km NW 304° Borth Wen Stone Row / Alignment (SH27007500)
 8.1km E 98° Malltraeth* Standing Stone (Menhir) (SH4085569306)
 8.1km NW 318° Bodior Standing Stone* Standing Stone (Menhir) (SH277770)
 8.4km WNW 302° St Gwenfaens Well* Holy Well or Sacred Spring (SH2594975436)
 8.8km NW 310° Cromlech in Rhoscolyn* Burial Chamber or Dolmen (SH2634376610)
 8.9km NW 306° Bwa Gwyn* Natural Stone / Erratic / Other Natural Feature (SH259762)
 9.5km ENE 62° Graiglas* Round Barrow(s) (SH415749)
 9.7km NW 325° Ynys Leurad* Ancient Village or Settlement (SH2764978895)
 9.7km ENE 61° Druid Farm* Standing Stones (SH416751)
 9.7km SE 140° Merddyn Cil* Holy Well or Sacred Spring (SH3894563110)
 9.7km E 81° Hen Blas* Burial Chamber or Dolmen (SH42577197)
 9.7km SE 142° Ffynnon Dafaden* Holy Well or Sacred Spring (SH3867562885)
 9.8km SE 142° Ffynnon Dwynwen* Holy Well or Sacred Spring (SH387628)
 9.8km ENE 70° St Ceinwen Holy Well* Holy Well or Sacred Spring (SH423737)
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"Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey)" | Login/Create an Account | 29 News and Comments
  
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Barclodiad-y-Gawres Virtual Tour from CADW by Andy B on Tuesday, 08 November 2022
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Virtual Tour from CADW here (down the page a bit)

https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/whats-on/virtual-visits/virtual-visits-neolithic-tombs
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by stonetramp on Sunday, 30 October 2022
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I really wanted to visit this site but it was closed when I went on Sept. 18, 2022. So happy to see all these photos!
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Legends and excavation at Barclodiad-y-Gawres and Sister Wives band by Andy B on Sunday, 30 October 2022
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Barclodiad y Gawres - "The Giantess's Apronful". Legend has it that two giants were travelling across the Anglesey carrying stones to set up a new home near Holyhead, the wife became weary and dropped her load of stones here.

Or more positively, the Cailleach as benevolent earth mother and the guardian of the sacred wells. Like the land itself, the Cailleach changes shape, sometimes appearing as a beautiful young maiden, sometimes as an old woman (crone) and sometimes as a legendary giantess.

A pile of stones with more than first meets the eye. Excavated in 1952 by Thomas Powell and Glyn 'Antiquity' Daniel. Multiple chambers and cremated remains - a Cruciform Passage Grave. And inside the most beautiful rock art on six stones, one only discovered in 2001.

Its Anglesey location is highly unusual as this and the style of tomb are Irish, with other influences. Inside the chamber was evidence of long term burning, but mixed in were unburnt bones from fish (wrasse), eel, frog, toad, snakes, mice and hares, a witches brew if ever I heard. The whole thing preserved by a covering of limpet shells.

Read more as a Twitter thread:
https://twitter.com/megportal/status/1586625822030548992
[ Reply to This ]

Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by Catrinm on Sunday, 30 August 2020
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Update 30.08.20 The key is no longer available at the Wayside Stores. They told us only organised trips with Cadw can get access.
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Barclodiad-y-Gawres access on Bank Holidays by Andy B on Monday, 22 April 2019
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Catrinm writes: Open 12-4 on bank holidays key from Spar at Rhosneigr. There is a sign at site shame they dont explain this on Cadw website.
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The burial tombs of Stone Age Wales by Andy B on Thursday, 25 January 2018
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Common Culture

5,500 years ago a common culture spread around the Atlantic coast of Europe linking Brittany, Cornwall, Wales, southern Scotland and Ireland.

Today, evidence of this culture survives in the form of passage tombs - circular burial mounds pierced by stone-lined passages that open into central chambers.

Stone Age Crematoriums

These tombs were built by early farming communities to house the cremated remains of their dead and were used for generations. They must have been important landmarks that linked the living with their ancestors.

Within Wales, passage tombs are best seen on Anglesey where two important examples are sufficiently well-preserved to allow public access - Barclodiad y Gawres and Bryn Celli Ddu.

Barclodiad y Gawres ('the apronful of the giantess') was built with a main chamber flanked by three side-chambers in which the dead would have been placed. In the centre of the main chamber was a hearth from which a fire would have illuminated the tomb during rituals.

Witches brew and spiral artwork

To the surprise of the archaeologists excavating the site, the hearth contained a strange mix of reptile, fish and amphibian bones. While the reason for this 'witches brew' will never be known, one important insight into the culture of these tomb builders is the strange artwork that is pecked into the rocks that line the passage and chamber. These designs include spirals and strange meandering zig-zag patterns.

On their own they might be dismissed as a whim of the builders, but this type of design is also found within other passage tombs as far afield as Ireland and Brittany.

A similarly patterned stone was found at Bryn Celli Ddu (Anglesey). However, here the stone was discovered lying face down in a pit beneath the tomb's chamber where it must have been buried before tomb building began. Was it buried in order to sanctify the site, or was it buried to hide it away? - another unanswered mystery.

The passage tombs on Anglesey are not the only ones in Wales. Other examples are known from Gwynedd and Pembrokeshire, although these are less well-preserved.

More at
https://museum.wales/articles/2007-05-14/The-burial-tombs-of-Stone-Age-Wales/
[ Reply to This ]
    b-y-g tomb anglesey by Catrinm on Sunday, 21 April 2019
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    Hi andy do you know how and if you can get a key to access nowadays
    catrin
    [ Reply to This ]
      Re: b-y-g tomb anglesey by Anonymous on Sunday, 15 September 2019
      No unfortunately. Although CADW have open days on 21st and 22nd september 2019
      [ Reply to This ]

Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres closed during renovation work by AngieLake on Monday, 30 May 2016
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NB: Barclodiad-y-Gawres is currently fenced off while work is carried out to improve the monument. I was there very recently (nearly 2 weeks ago) and took some photos which I'll get around to posting as time allows.
(It was disappointing, after battling a stiff cold wind, and mist blowing in from the sea - atmospheric! - to find it out of bounds.)
Wondering if the stones in the ground of the passage approach are ok, as a big machine (digger?) parked there? (Sorry, too busy to check out old photo memory card at the mo.)
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CADW Open Doors Event - Barclodiad y Gawres Burial Chamber 26th/27th Sept 2015 by Andy B on Sunday, 20 September 2015
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A chance to investigate this unique and important passage tomb which is not generally open to the public. Find out more about its architecture and enjoy special access to view the ancient decorated stones.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres is a partially reconstructed Neolithic burial chamber, famous for its decorated stones. The spectacular, cliff side position of this later Neolithic monument is one of its great attractions and accessing it provides a short pleasant walk. Barclodiad-y-Gawres means 'The Giantess's Apronful' and is a traditional local name.

Tours will be at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm. Meet at the monument.

Dates: 26 Sep - 27 Sep 2015
Times: 11.00pm - 4.00pm

Free Event

http://cadw.gov.wales/events/allevents/open-doors-barclodiad-y-gawres-burial-chamber-26-and-27-september-2015/?skip=1&lang=en

Cadw Open Doors
There are lots of Cadw sites and premises open on the weekend of 26th/27th - worth checking on their website
http://cadw.gov.wales/opendoors/events-2014/?lang=en

With thanks to PAB for the information
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Barclodiad-y-Gawres comic by Andy B on Friday, 14 August 2015
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Cadw have created a range of comics to tell the tales of three of Anglesey’s most fascinating sites, Bryn Celli Ddu, Barclodiad y Gawres and Llyn Cerrig Bach.

http://cadw.gov.wales/fun/cadw-comics/?lang=en

http://cadw.gov.wales/docs/cadw/publications/fun/150731barclodiadygawres-en.pdf (PDF)
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Horizons: Old and New, Bryn-Celli-Ddu and Barclodiad-y-Gawres, 21 Jun - 22 Jun by Andy B on Monday, 02 June 2014
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Horizons: Old and New, Bryn-Celli-Ddu and Barclodiad-y-Gawres,21 Jun - 22 Jun

Horizons: Old and New, A celebration of the Neolithic period on Anglesey

Join us at two spectacular Neolithic sites - Bryn Celli Ddu and Barclodiad-y-Gawres passage tombs - for a celebration of the Summer Solstice during the weekend of 21-22 June 2014.

1. Celebrating the Neolithic at Bryn-Celli-Ddu
2. The Story of the Rocks: New perspectives at Barclodiad-y-Gawres

Experience a dawn celebration at Bryn Celli Ddu, and then explore the art installations, workshops, talks, tours and have a go hands-on activities.

What technologies did people use in the Neolithic period and how did art begin? You will find out how archaeologists and artists interpret these important sites in the 21st century too - help us make a 3D model of Bryn Celli Ddu, and learn about cutting edge archaeology recording techniques, and experience these passage tombs through exciting new art installations and performances at Barclodiad-y-Gawres.

1. Celebrating the Neolithic at Bryn-Celli-Ddu

Activities at Bryn Celli Ddu will include:

Neolithic food demonstration
Rock art workshops
Flint knapping demonstration
Make your own Neolithic pot to take home
Dress up as a tomb builder
Bone flute making demonstration
Site tours and talks
Living history displays
Help create a 3D model of Bryn Celli Ddu
Meet the Guerilla Archaeologists!

There will also be an Archaeology Finds Roadshow - so bring your own artefacts for identification!

2. The Story of the Rocks at Barclodiad-y-Gawres

A collaborative project between Cadwand the artists Awst & Walther, supported by the Arts Council of Wales.

Welsh-German artist duo Awst & Walther have developed an artwork at Barclodiad-y-Gawres that explores contemporary ideas of 'site' and 'place'. Following their investigations at the ancient circular mound they will offer new modes of understanding and experiencing this environment in the 21st century.

The artwork and performance will be open to the public on the 21-22 June, and there will also be a chance to speak to the artists.

The Artists:

Manon Awst grew up on Anglesey and studied Architecture at the University of Cambridge. She is currently a PhD candidate at the Royal College of Art, London.

German-born Benjamin Walther studied Art History and Philosophy at the Humboldt University, Berlin and has directed in Theatres across Europe.

For more information visit: http://www.awst-walther.com

This project is a partnership between Cadw, Arts Council of Wales, the artists Awst & Walther and Heritage Together.

Dates
21 Jun - 22 Jun 2014

Times
11.00am - 4.00pm

Price: Am ddim/Free

http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/events/allevents/horizons-old-and-new-bryn-celli-ddu-burial-chamber-21-and-22-june-2014/?lang=en
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Open Day Barclodiad-y-Gawres 14 Jun 2014 by bat400 on Monday, 02 June 2014
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Open Day

Come and help record the rock art at Barclodiad-y-Gawres passage tomb, as part of a new digital community archaeology project called Heritage Together, to produce 3D models of prehistoric sites in Wales.

Sign up for one of the timed tours of the site (in Welsh or English) with Rhys Mwyn, which will take place on the hour, and listen to an introduction to aerial photography, and photogrammetry.

Tours are on the hour from 11.00am.

Guided tour by professional NWTGA guide.

This event is organised by Cadw and HeritageTogether.

Dates, times and prices

Dates
14 Jun 2014

Times
11.00am - 4.00pm

Prices
Adult - Am Ddim/Free
Family - Am Ddim/Free
Senior citizens, students and children under 16 - Am Ddim/Free
Member - Am Ddim/Free
Disabled and companion - Am Ddim/Free

Thanks to coldrum for this link: cadw.wales.gov.uk/events
[ Reply to This ]

Anglesey Summer Solstice events, weekend of 21-22 June 2014 by Andy B on Thursday, 20 March 2014
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Getting this one in early!
A celebration of the Neolithic period on Anglesey

CADW write: Join us at two spectacular Neolithic sites - Bryn Celli Ddu and Barclodiad-y-Gawres passage tombs - for a celebration of the Summer Solstice during the weekend of 21-22 June 2014.

1. Celebrating the Neolithic at Bryn-Celli-Ddu
2. The Story of the Rocks: New perspectives at Barclodiad-y-Gawres

Experience a dawn celebration at Bryn Celli Ddu, and then explore the art installations, workshops, talks, tours and have a go hands-on activities.

What technologies did people use in the Neolithic period and how did art begin? You will find out how archaeologists and artists interpret these important sites in the 21st century too - help us make a 3D model of Bryn Celli Ddu, and learn about cutting edge archaeology recording techniques, and experience these passage tombs through exciting new art installations and performances at Barclodiad-y-Gawres.

1. Celebrating the Neolithic at Bryn-Celli-Ddu

Activities at Bryn Celli Ddu will include:

Neolithic food demonstration
Rock art workshops
Flint knapping demonstration
Make your own Neolithic pot to take home
Dress up as a tomb builder
Bone flute making demonstration
Site tours and talks
Living history displays
Help create a 3D model of Bryn Celli Ddu
Meet the Guerilla Archaeologists!

There will also be an Archaeology Finds Roadshow - so bring your own artefacts for identification!

2. The Story of the Rocks at Barclodiad-y-Gawres

A collaborative project between Cadw and the artists Awst & Walther, supported by the Arts Council of Wales.

Welsh-German artist duo Awst & Walther have developed an artwork at Barclodiad-y-Gawres that explores contemporary ideas of 'site' and 'place'. Following their investigations at the ancient circular mound they will offer new modes of understanding and experiencing this environment in the 21st century.

The artwork and performance will be open to the public on the 21-22 June, and there will also be a chance to speak to the artists.

The Artists:

Manon Awst grew up on Anglesey and studied Architecture at the University of Cambridge. She is currently a PhD candidate at the Royal College of Art, London.

German-born Benjamin Walther studied Art History and Philosophy at the Humboldt University, Berlin and has directed in Theatres across Europe.

More at
http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/events/allevents/horizons-old-and-new-barclodiad-y-gawres-21-and-22-june-2014/?lang=en
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Open Doors at Barclodiad y Gawres Burial Chamber, 28-29th Sept by Andy B on Monday, 16 September 2013
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A chance to investigate this unique and important passage tomb which is not generally open to the public. Find out more about its architecture and enjoy special access to view the ancient decorated stones.

Barclodiad-y-Gawres is a partially reconstructed Neolithic burial chamber, famous for its decorated stones. The spectacular, cliff side position of this later Neolithic monument is one of its great attractions and accessing it provides a short pleasant walk. Barclodiad-y-Gawres means 'The Giantess's Apronful' and is a traditional local name.

Tours will be at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm.

This event is in partnership with North Wales Tourist Guiding Association and the Civic Trust for Wales. It is organised as part of European Heritage Days. More details can be found on the Civic Trust for Wales website: http://www.opendoorsdays.org.uk

Dates: 28 Sep - 29 Sep 2013

Times: 11.00pm - 4.00pm

Price: Free

More details at
http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/events/allevents/open-doors-barclodiad-y-gawres-burial-chamber-28-and-29-september-2013/?lang=en

with thanks to Guile for the link
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Update from Heritage of Wales News by Andy B on Tuesday, 15 February 2011
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The headline is
Chambered Tomb Older Than Egyptian Pyramids

Barclodiad y Gawres is a Neolithic chambered tomb set on a crag at the highest point of the Mynydd Cnwc headland overlooking Trecastle Bay. The tomb was excavated in 1952-3 and has since been consolidated and presented for public access within a modern glass-topped mound.

The prehistoric tomb, built between 5-6000 years ago and older than the Egyptian pyramids, was originally covered by a great turf based mound some 27m in diameter. On the north side was an inturned forecourt from which a 7.0m long passage led into the irregular central chamber. Three smaller chambers branched off this central space producing a cruciform plan. These smaller chambers at least were roofed by great stone slabs, only one of which survives. The west chamber had a smaller annex within which the cremated remains of two men were found. The end stones of the east and west chamber and three of the stones in the inner end of the passage were decorated with abstract pecked patterns of zig-zags, lozenges and spirals, in a tradition of megalithic rock art common among the tombs of the Boyne Valley in Ireland, including the famous Newgrange, and chambered tombs in Brittany and Spain.

Traces of a long lasting fire were found during excavations in the central chamber. This had been quenched by a 'stew' or magical potion, followed by a quantity of limpet shells and pebbles. However, alternative explanations offered for this unusual deposit of largely inedible mammals and fish is that it is faeces from an otter who may have been resident in the derelict tomb.

Due to recent vandalism the tomb is unfortunately kept locked, but through new photographic and laser-scanning technology it will soon be possible to see the glories of the prehistoric carvings inside the tomb once again. Research in 2005 and 2006 by a team from Bristol University discovered further pecked prehistoric rock art on Stone 7, in the left hand or eastern recess of the chamber, showing that this ancient tomb still had new secrets to reveal.
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Re: Previously unrecorded carvings found by research for TV programme by Anonymous on Tuesday, 08 February 2011
The Barclodiiad-y-Gawres pictographs have consistently great similarity with those at Knowth c.3500 BC, Newgrange 3200 BC, Loughcrew in Co. Meath Ireland. These are analysed and deciphered in pages 251 to 274 of my book 'Stonehenge Sacred Symbolism', ISBN 9780957828254 pub 2010.
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Previously unrecorded carvings found by research for TV programme by Andy B on Thursday, 03 February 2011
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Cerrig reports that Barclodiad y Gawres features in BBC Wales, Hidden Histories, episode 3. The rock art was being recorded by George Nash, using digital photography, and the Royal Commission, using Laser scanning technology. Previously unrecorded carvings have turned up.

Available to view on BBC Iplayer.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00yd7f4/Hidden_Histories_Series_3_Episode_3/

(UK only or use a proxy)
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by DrewParsons on Friday, 29 October 2010
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In 2010 the visiting times were extended from 1st April until 31 October as follows: 1200 to 1600 hours on weekends and bank holidays. See my photo of the site sign taken in late September 2010 posted to this page.
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by Anonymous on Saturday, 20 October 2007
Cadw have denied the people of Wales access to their history at Barclodiad 'in case' it gets vandalised. Access now is only possible by paying cadw large amounts of money to get a chaperone onsite with a key. Also, the cadw phone number on the onsite sign does not exist! CADW- Chaos and Destruction in Wales.
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    Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by maesi on Friday, 14 November 2008
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    Visited this site on 13th November,2008. Internal viewing is possible between 1200 and 1600 hours, weekends and bank holidays beetween 1st April and 30th September. To arrange viewing contact the local Wayside stores 01407 810153. You will be accompanied during the visit.
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by Anonymous on Tuesday, 14 August 2007
Went to visit this site at the beginning of August 07 and unfortunately the site has been vandalised. Cadw have withdrawn the key from Wayside Stores and are currently deciding how the public can get access to the site. Would suggest anyone wanting to visit should contact Cadw directly to see if they can get a private viewing, which is one of the options they are thinking of.
So sad that they few spoil it for the masses......
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by coldrum on Tuesday, 10 July 2007
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http://www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/default.asp?id=6&PlaceID=25
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres (Anglesey) by Anonymous on Saturday, 24 March 2007
The entrance faces just west of north and may align with a hilltop in northwestern Anglesey (Mynedd y Garn). Using SKYMAP software set for 2500 BC, midwinter, then from BYG at sunset the star Arcturus would be above the distant hilltop. At midnight the constellation Cassiopeia would be setting in that direction. There is plenty of scope for other ideas!

Rocky
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres by Anonymous on Friday, 02 September 2005
i can confirm the Aberffraw Centre is closed and the key is - as i write - only available from the Wayside Stores, as above.

Barclodiad is briefly mentioned in 'Prehistoric Wales' (2000), Lynch et al.

ric
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres by Anonymous on Thursday, 03 February 2005
hi i regularly visit anglesey and am fascinated by the megaliths and sites. is there a good book anyone can recomend?
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres by Aerial-Cam on Thursday, 16 September 2004
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As part of our wet weather plan for a recent research trip to Anglesey, we spent some time in the shelter of the bunker over the chamber and practiced the 'painting with light' technique for photographing the Rock Art. With some very good digital equipment we got some great results. Please contact me for more info on how to do this:
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres by TimPrevett on Tuesday, 06 April 2004
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The key is only available from The Wayside Stores now, nowhere else. A short drive to the North of the chamber, on the right hand side road to the right of the Rhosneigr turn off. They have 4 keys.
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Re: Barclodiad-y-Gawres by Vicky on Sunday, 22 February 2004
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The key can also be obtained from the 'Wayside Stores' in Llanfaelog for a £5 deposit - they also provide you with a torch.
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