D15, Neolithic dolmen in Drenthe, Netherlands
D15 is a Neolithic dolmen in Drenthe featuring large granite stones arranged to form a burial chamber supported by stone pillars and topped with a massive capstone. The structure displays the typical layout of these megalithic tombs with their characteristic horizontal stone arrangement.
This dolmen was built between 3470 and 3250 BC by the Funnelbeaker culture as a tomb for their dead. This period marks when communities in northern Europe began constructing permanent megalithic monuments for burial purposes.
The local Dutch name 'hunebed' for these structures originates from ancient beliefs that giants placed these enormous stones as resting places. This naming tradition shows how these megalithic tombs have captured people's imagination across generations.
The site is accessible year-round and features informational panels explaining the construction methods and archaeological findings. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven, and expect typical northern European weather with wind and rain.
The granite blocks were not quarried locally but transported from Scandinavia over vast distances, demonstrating the logistical capabilities of ancient societies. This enormous effort shows how significant burial sites were to the Funnelbeaker people.
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