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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The menhir d'Arnac is an iconic megalith located in the commune of Cieux, in the Haute-Vienne department, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. This monument, dated Neolithic, reflects the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric societies in the region. It is distinguished by its size and its location near the hamlet of Ceinturat, about 1,600 meters to the northwest.

The menhir was officially recognized for its heritage value and listed as historic monuments on 15 April 1987. This legal protection underlines its archaeological importance and its role in understanding ancient civilizations. The site is now managed by the municipality of Cieux, which ensures its preservation.

Menhirs, like Arnac's, were often associated with ritual or commemorative functions in Neolithic. Their erection reflected a complex social organization, capable of mobilizing human and technical resources to transport and erect these monumental stones. Although the specific details of its use remain unknown, this menhir is part of a wider network of megaliths present in New Aquitaine, illustrating a tradition shared by the communities of the time.

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