North West Wales before Edward I

North West Wales' slate landscape reveals a rich history of stoneworking dating back to the third millennium BCE, with significant developments during the Neolithic to Bronze Age periods. The region's early use of glacial boulders and field stones, particularly at Penmaenmawr's stone axe factory, highlights innovative exploitation of local geology. By the Iron Age, advanced quarrying techniques emerged, especially in Anglesey's limestone outcrops, influencing Roman constructions such as forts and early slate roofing. The Early Christian period marked a shift towards funerary stone use, with notable churches appearing by the 12th century. Medieval Welsh Princes' castles and churches became prominent structures, potentially repurposing materials from earlier periods for later Edwardian castle construction. This study synthesizes archaeological evidence to trace the evolution of stoneworking practices across millennia.

Siddall, R. (2021). North West Wales before Edward I. Natural Stone and World Heritage, 81–131. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003002444-3