Carnac alignments
The Carnac alignmentsin the heart of department from Morbihan at region Brittanyare one of the most fascinating megalithic sites in Europe.Europe. With more than 3,000 menhirs erected over a 4-kilometre stretch, this prehistoric site is classified as a World Heritage site. Historical monument since 1889 and is in contention for recognition UNESCO World Heritage. This distinction underlines its immense historical and cultural value.
Historical and cultural significance
Dating back 7,000 years, the Carnac alignments bear witness to Neolithic civilization. They represent the pinnacle of over 550 megalithic sites in Morbihan, attracting international visitors. These menhirs are not only historic, they also symbolize ancient spirituality.
What's in this guide?
This guide explores the history of the Carnac alignments, the main sites of Ménec, Kermario, and Kerlescanand offers advice for your visit. It also highlights the Museum of Prehistory and the House of Megaliths, enriching your trip to Carnac.
Find out more about the commune of Carnac and its beaches, read our detailed article here.
History and origin of the alignments
Historical context of the Carnac alignments
The Carnac alignments date back to the Neolithic period, erected between 4,000 and 3,000 B.C. This era represents a decisive evolution for mankind, marking the transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to an agricultural existence. The alignments testify to the ingenuity of the first farming communities in planning and executing monumental works over several generations, illustrating cultural continuity and remarkable organizational complexity.
Possible functions and associated theories
The Carnac alignments are shrouded in mystery as to their original purpose. Various theories have been proposed to decipher their significance. One common hypothesis suggests a sacred or religious function, possibly as cult sites or for funerary rituals. Other conjectures suggest that they may have served as astronomical calendars, helping to track lunar or solar cycles, or as landmarks for navigation and agriculture. Although some marginal and unscientific theories point to a connection with extraterrestrial visitors, these ideas are not recognized by the scientific community.
How to visit the Carnac alignments
Best times to visit
The Carnac alignments are open all year round, offering a variety of experiences depending on the season. Between April and September, to protect the site and enrich the visitor experience, guided tours are compulsory. They offer an immersion into the mysteries and stories of the alignments, ideal for those wishing to deepen their knowledge. From October to March, access is free, perfect for a visit at your own pace.
Practical tips for an optimal visit
Prepare for your visit to enjoy the alignments to the full. Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking for several kilometers. Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. During high season, remember to book your guided tours in advance to avoid waiting times.
Guided and self-guided tour options
Opt for a guided tour between April and September to benefit from the expertise of qualified guides who will introduce you to the Ménec, Kermario and Kerlescan sites with captivating anecdotes. To explore at your own pace, download the Carnac mobile app, which offers a discovery trail, free or complete for €1.29. The footpaths around the alignments remain freely accessible all year round, allowing personal discovery of the site.
Detailed exploration of the Carnac alignments
Alignements du Ménec: features and characteristics
The Alignements du Ménec, one of Carnac's three main groups of menhirs, lie to the west of the town. They comprise 1,050 menhirs arranged in eleven parallel rows, stretching for almost a kilometer. The site begins with a cromlech of 71 stone blocks, located near the village of Ménec.
Menhirs range in height from 4 metres in the west to 0.6 metres in the east. This particular layout and the regularity of the rows make the Ménec alignments particularly emblematic of the Carnac alignments.
Alignements de Kermario: overview and points of interest
Shortly after the Alignements du Ménec, to the east, lie the Alignements de Kermario, also known as the "House of the Dead". This site comprises 1,029 menhirs arranged in ten rows, stretching for around 1,300 metres.
The fan-shaped arrangement of the menhirs, becoming progressively shorter towards the east, is a distinctive feature of this site. Aerial photography has revealed the presence of a stone circle at the eastern end, adding mystery and interest to Kermario.
Alignements de Kerlescan and other lesser-known areas
Even further east, the Kerlescan alignments form a smaller but equally captivating ensemble, with 555 menhirs distributed in thirteen rows over some 800 meters. Menhirs range in size from 80 cm to 4 metres, and a stone circle comprising 39 menhirs marks the western end.
In addition to these three major sites, other areas such as the Petit-Ménec alignments at La Trinité-sur-Mer offer a unique perspective on the diversity and richness of Carnac's megalithic heritage.
Alignements de Carnac - Conclusion
Summary of the megalithic site experience
The megalithic site des alignements de Carnac is a unique and captivating site, offering a rare perspective on European prehistory. With over 3,000 menhirs spread over almost 4 kilometers, divided into sections such as Ménec, Kermario and Kerlescan, it is a remarkable testimony to the ingenuity and spirituality of our ancestors.
Exploring this site through guided or self-guided tours reveals the mysteries and various theories surrounding these impressive monuments. We also recommend a visit to the Museum of Prehistory and the House of Megaliths to enrich your understanding of this extraordinary heritage. So get ready to plunge into the fascinating world of the Carnac alignments and marvel at the ancestral history and culture that permeates these age-old stones.
Alignements de Carnac - FAQ
What is the significance of the Carnac alignments?
The Alignments de Carnac, a monumental complex in Brittany, France, comprise thousands of menhirs spread over several kilometers. Dating from the Neolithic period, these structures are among the most imposing and ancient prehistoric ensembles in Europe. They are thought to have had ritual and astronomical functions, but their precise significance is still a matter of debate among specialists.
Who laid the menhirs at Carnac?
Erected by prehistoric communities during the Neolithic period, between 6,500 and 4,500 years ago, the menhirs of Carnac bear witness to the ingenuity of the peoples who inhabited the region. Although the reasons for their construction are still the subject of debate, it is clear that they are the fruit of a remarkable collective effort.
How old are the Carnac alignments?
Dating from between 6,500 and 4,500 B.C., the Carnac alignments bear witness to the Neolithic period. They are among the oldest and most significant megalithic monuments in Europe.
How to see the Carnac alignments?
The archaeological site of Carnac, in Brittany, France, is accessible on foot or by car. For a respectful and rewarding visit to the site, we recommend following the signposted paths. For those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the alignments, guided tours offer a detailed insight into their history and significance.
Find out more, visit the official website of the Carnac alignments.
