Menhir de Kerloas
Brest, France
- Historical landmark
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Top-rated.online cuts through the clutter, highlighting only the reviews that are most helpful, earn the most likes, or come from the most active contributors. Stunning … Show more
Top-rated.online cuts through the clutter, highlighting only the reviews that are most helpful, earn the most likes, or come from the most active contributors. Stunning place. I'm impressed of the why and how. This one is really huge. Very interesting to visit. Information signs regarding history are informative. A of impressive size. Parking just off the road and a short walk to the site. Impressive monument. Mysterious vibe The best of all of the Menhirs that we visited in the area. There was a parking lot and a cleared path giving easy access straight to the Menhir. For over five millennia, the Menhir of Kerloas in Plouarzel, France, has dominated the landscape as the tallest menhir on Earth. Towering at an impressive height of 9.5 meters (31 ft) above the ground, with an additional 2 meters (6.5 ft) hidden beneath the earth, this colossal granite monolith, weighing a staggering 100 tons, was masterfully shaped and polished by an enigmatic prehistoric civilization whose name has been lost to time. Adorning its base are two distinctive raised bosses, thought to have played a role in ancient fertility and marriage rituals—tiny clues whispering of the passions and beliefs of a bygone era. Yet, the most perplexing question lingers: how did the ingenious Neolithic builders manage to transport and erect such a monumental without the aid of advanced technology? A silent enigma from the depths of history, the true significance of this magnificent structure continues to elude our understanding, inviting speculation and wonder from all who encounter it. As advertised: Large, long, granite stone. Upright positioned. Staff responsible for setting up this place did a fine job. Purpose or mode of operation still unclear, though. Hint: Would recommend taking photos with a person in the picture for size comparison. Menhir de Kerloas, Plouarzel (Finistère, Brittany) At about 9.5 m (31 ft) high, the Menhir de Kerloas is the tallest standing menhir in Europe—and possibly the world (excluding obelisks). Its tip was lost centuries ago after a lightning strike, reducing its original height by around 2 m. Carved from granite and weighing over 100 tons, it was likely transported from a quarry 2 km away, a remarkable feat. The shows two curious bumps near its base, nicknamed “the hunchback,” which may have been used to secure ropes. Folklore adds charm: in the 19th century, newlyweds rubbed against the bumps—seeking fertility, male heirs, or even household dominance. Legends also tie the to the giant Gargantua. Excavations revealed Bronze Age remains, suggesting long ritual use. Recommendation For fans of megaliths, this is not to be missed—a true prehistoric skyscraper. For others, it’s still an impressive and atmospheric stop. Parking is ample, and a short walk through fields leads you straight to this ancient monument. Wonderful tactile rock ..quite a feat for those bringing it from the quarry 3k away all those years ago ..fantastic monument Nice stone! Crazy that humans have done that 5000 years ago. Website change monitoring Monitor any webpage for changes – get instant email alerts when prices drop, new jobs are posted, products come back in stock, or competitors update their sites. See how the number of reviews and average review scores have changed over time.
Opening hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Details
- Address
- 29810 Plouarzel, Plouarzel, Metropolitan France, FR
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