St Breock Downs Monolith, Prehistoric standing stone in Cornwall, England
St Breock Downs Monolith is a large standing stone of quartz-streaked granite positioned on open terrain in Cornwall, rising prominently above the surrounding landscape. The monument stands approximately 16 feet (5 meters) tall and weighs roughly 16.5 tons, making it the heaviest menhir in the county.
The stone was erected more than 3500 years ago during the late Neolithic through Bronze Age periods when early populations shaped the landscape across Western Europe with standing stones. It toppled in 1945 but was restored to its upright position in 1956 and has remained stable ever since.
Locally known as Men Gurta, a name derived from Breton language meaning long stone, this monolith reflects how ancient people named and understood their landscape. The stone remains a focal point for those exploring their connection to Cornwall's distant past.
The monolith sits about two kilometers southwest of Burlawn toward Rosenannon and is easy to locate following the signposts in the area. The walk from the parking area to the stone is brief and straightforward, with dogs welcome if kept on a lead.
Archaeologists discovered small quartz pebbles scattered nearby and two small depressions in the ground that may relate to ancient burial sites. These findings suggest the location served a more complex ritual or burial-related purpose than simply standing as an isolated marker.
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