Nécropole néolithique du Petit-Chasseur, Neolithic necropolis and megalithic site in Sion, Switzerland
The Nécropole néolithique du Petit-Chasseur is an archaeological complex containing three dolmens and multiple standing stones positioned in systematic patterns across the burial ground. The site displays carefully arranged Neolithic burial structures.
Excavations conducted between 1961 and 1984 uncovered burial structures dating from 2900 to 2200 BC with remains of roughly 90 individuals. This work revealed how organized and extensive these early burial practices were.
The carved stones feature detailed depictions of human figures adorned with geometric patterns and solar symbols, showing how artistic skills developed during the Neolithic. These engravings reveal what mattered to the people who created this burial place.
The main dolmen M VI remains accessible under a protective shelter, allowing visitors to see how Neolithic construction techniques were applied. The site is easy to navigate on foot and provides close access to the stone arrangements.
In 2019, archaeologists discovered six aligned standing stones each weighing around two tonnes during construction work near the existing dolmens. This discovery showed the burial ground was more extensive than previously known.
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