Menhir de la Tiemblais, Neolithic menhir in Saint-Samson-sur-Rance, France.
Menhir de la Tiemblais is a Neolithic granite monolith standing about 8.5 meters tall and weighing between 50 and 60 tons. Its surface features twelve carved panels displaying representations of axes, crosses, and small animal figures.
This stone emerged during prehistoric times and was officially classified as a protected historical monument in March 1977. The designation recognized its importance for understanding Neolithic carving techniques and early human expression.
Local people call this stone the "Bonde de l'Enfer," meaning the seal of hell's entrance, reflecting old beliefs about its supernatural role. The name still appears in regional stories and guides the way locals talk about their landscape.
The carved details on the surface become visible only under certain lighting angles, making early morning or late afternoon the best times to visit. Visiting during these hours allows the low sun to highlight the ancient patterns across the stone.
A white quartz vein runs through the granite structure, creating a natural striped pattern. The stone itself leans at a steep angle toward the east, giving it a distinctive tilted appearance despite its enormous weight.
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