Kerléven cairn, Neolithic burial site in La Forêt-Fouesnant, France.
Kerléven cairn is a Neolithic megalithic tomb in La Forêt-Fouesnant featuring three interconnected chambers accessed through corridors. The structure has a trapezoidal form built from carefully stacked dry stone without mortar, creating a sturdy chamber system that has survived thousands of years.
The tomb was built around 2875 BCE during the Chassean period, when megalithic construction was widespread across Brittany. Archaeological investigations in the 1960s uncovered the structure and revealed details about its construction methods and how communities used the burial chambers.
The chambers show traces of burials accompanied by distinctive pottery, revealing funeral practices specific to early settlers of this region. Visitors can observe how the space was arranged to honor the dead, with chambers positioned along a central corridor.
The monument is easily accessible on foot and offers views over the bay, combining the visit with local scenery. The site sits in a wooded area, so visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and weather conditions.
Scientists were able to precisely date the pottery and charred wood remains, creating a clear timeline of occupation. This consistency of findings makes the site a key reference for understanding Neolithic life in this region.
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