Carnac

Carnac is a commune on the southern coast of Brittany in the Morbihan département, known for its collection of prehistoric stone rows. The town sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the inland countryside, encompassing both residential areas and open fields dotted with upright megaliths.

The upright stones were erected between 4500 BC and 2000 BC, forming one of the largest collections of Neolithic monuments in Europe. Over the centuries, farmers removed or toppled some stones, but the main groups remained in their original positions.

The stones carry names like Le Ménec, Kermario, and Kerlescan, all rooted in Breton and referring to settlements and landscape features. Visitors often notice the quiet around the fields, where walking paths run between the rows and display panels explain the different sections.

Visits are possible with guided tours between April and September, while the site remains freely accessible during winter months. A visitor center at the western edge offers exhibitions and helps with orientation among the different stone fields.

Some stones carry engravings of axes and other tools, visible only upon close inspection. These symbols appear mainly on the Kermario stones and are easiest to see when the sun is low.

Location: Morbihan

Location: Auray Quiberon Terre Atlantique

Location: arrondissement of Lorient

Capital city: Carnac

Elevation above the sea: 14 m

Shares border with: Ploemel, Crac'h, La Trinité-sur-Mer, Plouharnel, Erdeven

Address: 56340 Carnac, France

Phone: +33297520686

Email: accueil@carnac.fr

Website: https://carnac.fr

GPS coordinates: 47.58472,-3.07778

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:59