Carnac Stones

The Carnac Stones date back to the Neolithic period, with radiocarbon dating placing their construction between 4500 and 2000 BC. They predate Stonehenge and were erected by pre-Celtic farming communities living in the region. The sheer age of these alignments makes them one of Europe's most significant megalithic sites.

The site consists of over 3,000 standing stones, or menhirs, arranged in precise parallel lines across the Brittany countryside. The largest of these stones, known as the Giant of Manio, stands over 6 meters tall. The alignments stretch for over 4 kilometers through the French landscape.

The exact purpose of the Carnac Stones remains one of archaeology's biggest mysteries, though theories suggest they were used for astronomical tracking or religious ceremonies. Some researchers believe the alignments served as a complex earthquake predictor, while others think they were memorials to ancient leaders. No written records exist from the builders to explain their original function.

While the stones were freely accessible for centuries, strict visitor rules were implemented by the French government in the late 20th century to protect the site from erosion. During the peak summer months from June to September, visitors can only walk among the stones on a guided tour. However, the perimeter paths remain open to the public year-round.