Menhir de Pierrefitte, Prehistoric menhir in Étampes, France
The Pierrefitte menhir is an upright sandstone block standing near Étampes in the Île-de-France region. The stone rises from the landscape in isolation, offering views toward the Louette Valley, while its imposing form remains visible from considerable distances.
Early inhabitants of the region erected this monument during the Neolithic age. It received formal protection as a classified historical monument in 1964, marking its recognition as an important archaeological site.
This standing stone comes from an age when communities in the region performed rituals and erected stones to mark sacred ground. The practice reveals how early peoples expressed their beliefs and connection to the land through monumental stonework.
The menhir is accessible on foot, but wear sturdy shoes since the ground around it can be uneven. Plan your visit during daylight hours and fair weather when the stone is clearly visible and the surrounding area is easier to explore.
The north-facing side of the stone displays natural cavities worn by weather and time, while the opposite face remains relatively smooth and unaffected. This natural asymmetry makes the stone a fascinating example of how climate shapes stone over thousands of years.
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