Timeline

Origin and history

The Mégalithe des Coutoux de Valeuil is a dolmen located in the commune of Valeuil, Dordogne (New Aquitaine). This monument, built in the Neolithic period, illustrates the architectural and funeral traditions of this prehistoric period. It was classified as a Historic Monument by ministerial decree on November 24, 1960, recognizing its heritage and archaeological value.

The dolmen, typical of the collective burials of Neolithic, consists of large erect stones (orthostats) surmounted by one or more covering slabs. These structures were often associated with funeral rituals and beliefs related to the afterlife. In the region, as elsewhere in Europe, neolithic communities organized their lives around agriculture, livestock and handicrafts, while erecting these lasting monuments to honour their deceased.

The location of the site, although documented in the Merimée database under Insee 24064, remains approximate, with an accuracy estimated at 6/10 depending on available sources. GPS coordinates suggest an address close to Le Bost de Sarrazignac, but no detailed virtual visit or practical information is provided in the data consulted. The dolmen, protected under the Historic Monuments, is not specifically mentioned regarding its accessibility or current use (visits, rentals, etc.).

Available sources, including the Monumentum platform and associated internal data, confirm its protected heritage status. However, details of its state of conservation, its possible archaeological excavations or its integration into a tourist trail are not specified in the source text. Associated photography, credited to Father Igor under Creative Commons license, attests to its existence but does not provide additional information about its history or structure.

The 1960 classification underlines the importance of this dolmen in the regional archaeological landscape. Dolmens, as remains of the early sedentary societies, provide valuable insights into Neolithic construction techniques, social practices and spiritual beliefs. In New Aquitaine, a region rich in prehistoric sites, this monument is part of a wider network of megaliths, reflecting an ancient and organized human occupation.

No information is available on any historical figures related to this dolmen, or on specific events that took place there. The data are limited to its legal protection and geographical location, without anecdote or additional contextual detail.

External links