D17, Neolithic dolmen in Drenthe, Netherlands
D17 is a dolmen in Drenthe built from massive stone slabs arranged in a rectangular formation with supporting stones holding up a thick capstone. The structure demonstrates the construction techniques available to people living in the northern Netherlands thousands of years ago.
The structure was built during the Neolithic period by early farming societies that had settled in the region. Archaeological investigation shows it served as a burial monument constructed by communities with organized social structures.
The placement and construction of D17 demonstrate the technological capabilities and social organization of prehistoric communities that inhabited the northern Netherlands.
The site is accessible via marked pathways with informational panels explaining the construction methods. Visitors should allow time to view the stone arrangement from different angles and fully appreciate the scale of the monument.
The arrangement of the stones follows patterns that appear connected to astronomical events throughout the year. Researchers have found that builders may have considered the positions of the sun and stars when planning the monument.
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