Quelfennec, Archaeological quarry in Plussulien, France
Quelfennec is an ancient quarry in Plussulien that contains a hard stone called metadolerite, suitable for making durable tools. The site shows clear signs of systematic extraction and working of the stone to produce implements.
The quarry operated most intensively during the early periods of prehistory, roughly 3500 to 1800 BCE, when demand for stone tools was greatest. Archaeological investigation beginning in 1964 revealed the extent and organization of this ancient production site.
The quarry served as a major production hub whose output was highly valued by distant communities. This wide distribution reflects how essential quality stone tools were for survival and daily tasks in prehistoric times.
The site is located in a rural setting and is best explored on foot with attention to uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and visitors should be prepared for outdoor conditions that may vary throughout the day.
The tools produced here were instrumental in clearing vast forests across prehistoric Europe, fundamentally reshaping the landscape. This reveals how prehistoric communities used simple technology to transform their environment on a massive scale.
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