Alignements de Carnac — Attraction in Lorient

Mysterious lines of prehistoric stones that continue to confound archaeologists.

Striding across the open country around the Breton village of Carnac in western France are more than 4,000 standing stones—the largest assemblage of such stones in the world—erected by Neolithic people about 7,000 years ago, although some uncertainty surrounds their age. The stones stretch in lines running northeast from Carnac and are arranged in three main alignments and one small alignment. The three main alignments of stones stand in converging rows or fanlike arrangements alongside prehistoric tombs (dolmens) and tumuli (mounds).

Mysterious lines Quite why the stones were placed here is still a mystery. Some archaeologists have suggested alignments with sunsets at the solstices, or that the stones might have formed a huge observatory; others have proposed funerary uses or speculated that the stones mark a threshold between two different worlds. Local tradition says that the stones stand in straight lines because they were once a Roman legion turned to stone by the...

Carnac is a small village of about 5,000 people in the region of Brittany, northwestern France. It is home to the Carnac Stones, a system of more than 3,000 prehistoric standing stones.

The Carnac Stones consist of both single standing stones (menhirs) and multistone clusters (dolmens).

There are two main groups of stone alignments at Carnac, which are known as the Menec and Kermario alignments. Further smaller alignments are dotted around the area including the Kerlescan and the Petit Menec.

The Menec alignments are 12 converging rows of menhirs stretching more than a kilometre with the remains of a stone circle at either end. The largest stones, around 4m high, are at the wider, western end; they become smaller along the length of the alignment reaching around 0.6m high, at the extreme east they grow to in height.

A little further along to the east, this fanning layout is virtually repeated in what is called the...

Visiting the alignments is an unforgettable experience and an absolute must if you're in the region! It's a magical place that both kids and adults will find fascinating,perfect for a family adventure.

The megaliths stretch across a vast and stunning landscape, and to make the most of your visit, I highly recommend starting at "La Maison des Mégalithes".

This visitor center is full of engaging information and offers free maps, self-guided materials, and even guided tours, if you want to dive deeper into the history and mystery of this incredible place.

Whether you choose to explore on your own or join a tour, you're in for something truly special. ⚠️Just keep in mind that this is a fragile monument, and it needs all of us to help preserve it. So please, follow the rules set by the caretakers, respect the site, and let's make sure this wonder stays intact for...