A FIRST-EVER geophysical survey carried out at Pen Dinas earlier this month could “rewrite” the history of Aberystwyth, it has been claimed.

The survey, which hopes to reveal secrets about the Iron Age hillfort which could be hidden beneath the ground, was carried out on Wednesday and Thursday, 5 and 6 April.

The survey was carried out by a team which consisted of archaeologists from Archaeology Wales, archaeological consultants Trysor, and local people who were able to survey the top of the hill.

The survey forms part of a project called Pen Dinas Hill Fort: Exploring the Celtic Coast, by Penparcau Community Forum.

Dr Alan Chamberlain, a resident of Penparcau who has been heavily involved with the project, said: “We can’t give too much away until the data has been analysed, but it might rewrite history for Penparcau, Aberystwyth and the region.

“It is really exciting. It is especially important because the local community has made this happen. How amazing to think that Penparcau has its own ‘Time Team’.”

Dr Chamberlain said the results of the survey will reveal whether it is feasible to carry out more archaeology on the site, and it is hoped the discoveries could boost tourism and allow the site to be promoted as a place of myth and legend.

Pen Dinas, which is described by the St Fagans National History Museum as “one of the largest and most important hillforts in west Wales”, is designated a scheduled ancient monument by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service.

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