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Barnenez
48.6675° N, -3.8586° E
About
The Cairn of Barnenez (also: Barnenez Tumulus, Barnenez Mound; in Breton Karn Barnenez; in French: Cairn de Barnenez or Tumulus de Barnenez) is a Neolithic monument located near Plouezoc'h, on the Kernéléhen peninsula in northern Finistère, Brittany (France). It dates to the early Neolithic, about 4800 BC. Along with the Tumulus of Bougon and Locmariaquer megaliths, also located in Great West France, it is one of the earliest megalithic monuments in Europe and one of the oldest man-made structures in the world. It is also remarkable for the presence of megalithic art.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Mapped in Napoleonic cadaster
1807
First scientific recognition
1850
Quarrying halted after chamber discoveries
1950s
Restoration and excavation
1954–1968
Bronze Age reuse
3rd millennium BC
Second building phase (Cairn 2)
c. 4200 – c. 3900 BC
Radiocarbon second-phase range
between 4450 and 4000 BC
Initial construction (phase 1)
between 4850 and 4250 BC
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Burial and Funerary Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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