Candleston Castle - Function

Function

The building is traditionally called a castle yet apparently was not originally built purely for defensive purposes. The structure displays only late mediaeval fabric, suggesting a much later date than the nearby true castle of Ogmore, which was originally erected hurriedly as an earth and timber motte and bailey fort used in effecting the Norman Conquest of Glamorgan. There is no strong evidence to suggest that Candleston was likewise raised on the site of an earlier castle-ringwork, though the circular trace of the flimsy courtyard wall around the tip of the promontory may reflect an earlier structure. Its strategic position does however suggest some defensive function. The presence of the former warren, or game preserve, immediately to the south may be significant. Candleston may have been designed as the residence of the Warrener, who whilst being an important feudal official, might not have merited, or been entitled to, a heavily fortified building. A local legend relates that it was the site of an ancient oratory belonging to a Celtic chapel. The stepped base of a Calvary Cross, of unreported date, with the fallen cross itself lying alongside, was found near the windmill uncovered by sand in 1823.