Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Dolmen dit La Pierre Fouquerée, located in Ardillières in Charente-Maritime, is a megalithic monument emblematic of the Neolithic. It consists of an imposing local limestone cover table (3.30 m long, 2.15 m wide) now resting on a single orthostate, the second being reduced to scattered blocks. Originally, dry stone walls and a "furnace door" entrance probably completed the structure. Ranked a historic monument in 1889, it illustrates the funerary architecture of this period.

The site's first exploration dates back to 1835, initiated by the landowner, who revealed only human bones. In 1873, Charles Rigaud conducted a second excavation, revealing a jadeite hatchet, flint, black ceramic fragments, ornament elements (dental and bone) and new bones. These findings confirm the funeral and ritual use of dolmen, typical of the Neolithic communities of the region.

A local legend tells that an owner, trying to destroy the dolmen, only managed to reverse his cover table before finding it mysteriously restored the next day. According to tradition, he died shortly afterwards in terrible suffering, adding a mythical dimension to this archaeological site. This anecdote reflects popular beliefs associated with megaliths, often perceived as sacred or cursed.

The slabs of the dolmen, all made of local limestone, were partially regulated, suggesting an intentional work size. Léon Faye described the monument as early as 1838, contributing to its heritage recognition. Today, dolmen remains a valuable testimony of funeral practices and technical skills of neolithic societies in New Aquitaine.

The site, although partially degraded, retains significant archaeological and historical value. Its classification in 1889 raises the importance of its preservation, while the objects discovered (jadeite hatchet, trimmings) offer clues on the trades and craftsmanship of the period. The Pierre Fouquerée thus embodies both a place of memory and a subject of study for researchers.

The location of the dolmen, near the so-called "Ormeau du Cou", and its official address (17290 Ardillières) make it a point of interest for prehistoric enthusiasts. Although the practical information about his visit is limited, his status as a listed monument guarantees its accessibility for scientific studies and, to some extent, for the public.

External links