Ancient and modern

West Wales has no shortage of prehistoric remains. There are Neolithic sites dating back 4 - 5000 years, Bronze Age and Iron Age standing stones, burial chambers and forts from subsequent millennia. However, despite the fact that the bluestones that form the lintels of Stonehenge come from Pembrokeshire's hills (whether via the glacial flow or human agency is unresolved) - despite this, until recently there was only one stone circle in the area. This was not it - because this one was created only 1o years ago on behalf of the nearby eco-community that owns the land.

A circle may have been here once because its 16 stones were mostly found in situ, fallen and partially buried, but its existence was never recorded. During the years 2000-2002 the stones were raised and carefully positioned according to astronomical measurements, sightlines with topographical landmarks, dowsing and other traditional geomantic techniques that you can read about here. Only human and horse power was used in the construction, no heavy machinery. The circle is used now to celebrate pagan festivals and to connect with the land through the cycle of the seasons.

The circle stands on gently sloping open grassland. The sea lies a couple of miles to the north and immediately to the south rears the old volcanic peak of Carn Ingli which can present a brooding or a sparkling aspect. In this easterly view the tip of Frenni Fawr, one of the Preseli peaks, can be seen jutting from the skyline. These visual references to the surrounding landscape are thought to have been highly significant in the positioning of ancient sites.

Growing around the edge of the open area are trees, mainly oak, ash, holly and hazel. Sometimes farm animals graze among the stones; today there was yellow hawkweed still blooming in the grass, buzzards and a red kite drifted overhead.