D16

D16 is a megalithic tomb located north of the Kampsheide nature reserve in Balloo, Drenthe. The structure consists of several large stones arranged to form a burial chamber, with thick capstones resting on supporting pillars.

The tomb was built roughly between 3350 and 3030 BCE by the Funnelbeaker Culture, a farming society that inhabited the land during this period. It stands as one of 52 remaining dolmens in Drenthe that survive from this ancient civilization.

The name D16 refers to the monument's inventory number, distinguishing it from other megalithic tombs in the region. Visitors come here to explore the ancient burial practices of early farming communities who lived thousands of years ago.

The site can be reached via an unpaved road branching off from Lienstukkenweg, though it sits somewhat away from main routes. Visitors should expect uneven ground and wear sturdy shoes, especially after wet weather.

The massive stones were not quarried locally but were carried naturally from Scandinavia by glaciers during the last ice age. These boulders therefore tell a story spanning a much longer time frame than the construction of the tomb itself.

Location: Aa en Hunze

Part of: dolmens in the Netherlands

Address: Lienstukkenweg

GPS coordinates: 53.00040,6.61886

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:48