Pen y Fan, Mountain summit in Brecon Beacons, Wales
Pen y Fan is a mountain summit in Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales, rising 886 meters (2907 feet) above sea level and formed from red sandstone. The summit shows a flat platform surrounded by steep slopes that extend over the surrounding valleys and smaller hills.
Bronze Age communities constructed burial cairns at the summit, where archeologists discovered cremated remains and ceremonial artifacts. Later Roman forces used the high ground as lookout points during their occupation of southern Wales.
The Welsh name translates to "the mountain's peak", while earlier generations called it Cadair Arthur, referring to legendary King Arthur. Walkers today use the open paths that cross the grassy ridges and pass the ancient stone cairns that have stood on the flat summit plateau for thousands of years.
The main access point is Pont-ar-Daf car park on A470, with marked paths covering about 4 miles to reach the summit. In poor weather the exposed slopes can become windy and slippery, so visitors should wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear.
The mountain serves as a training ground for British Special Forces candidates who complete long-distance marches carrying heavy equipment. These exercises take place in all seasons and are a well-known part of military preparation in the region.
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