Online Archaeology Resources

There are many organisations providing information on the internet relevant to the archaeology of Wales. The links below are some of the sites we have found to be useful. Some of the organisations below also hold primary documentary or physical evidence which may be viewed by appointment.

Welsh Archaeological Trusts

Welsh Archaeological Trusts were established in 1975 and with the object of the ‘education of the public in archaeology’. The Welsh Archaeological Trusts cover the county areas of Clwyd, Powys, Dyfed, Glamorgan, Gwent and Gwynedd.

They each provide a large range of archaeological and heritage services, including the management of the Historic Environment Record, undertaking archaeological research, excavations, survey, publishing reports, the production of advice, information, training and the presentation of archaeological information.

Welsh Archaeological Trusts work closely with other national, regional and local bodies to help conserve, understand and promote all aspects of the historic environment in Wales. Each holds public events and encourages community projects.

Gwynedd Archaeological Trust

Dyfed Archaeological Trust

The Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust

Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust

Other Resources

CADW: Cadw is the Welsh Government’s historic environment service working for an accessible and well-protected historic environment for Wales. Cadw conserves Wales’s heritage, helps people understand and care about their history and helps sustain the distinctive character of Wales.

National Monuments Record for Wales, Cofflein: The National Monuments Record of Wales (NMRW) holds the national collection of information about the historic environment of Wales from the earliest times to the present day. Coflein is the online database of the national collection of information about the historic environment of Wales.

Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales: RCAHMW is the national organisation for the development and promotion of the archaeological, built and maritime heritage of Wales. It is the originator, curator and supplier of authoritative information for decision makers, researchers, and the general public.

National Museums of Wales: This multi-site museum contains the national collections of physical objects and traditional buildings related to the history of Wales. It covers Art, Archaeology, History and Natural History.

Archwilio: Archwilio provides online public access to the Historic Environment Records (HERs) held by each of the four Welsh Archaeological Trusts. It provides access to information and images on hundreds of thousands of archaeological and historic sites throughout Wales with bibliographies and research papers where applicable.

Historic Wales: Historic Wales is the portal for historic environment information. The portal allows simultaneous searching of hundreds of thousands of records relating to sites of and historic interest held in both the Cofflein and HER databases by means of a map based interface. It is periodically updated from those sources.