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Origin and history

The Menhirs of Bringuerault, also known as Bringnerault, is a megalithic site located in the commune of Hédé-Bazouges, in the department of Ille-et-Vilaine. Data from the Neolithic (4500-2000 B.C.), it now consists of three menhirs aligned, although it once had five menhirs. The missing stones, numbered 4 and 5, were positioned west of the first menhir. The distances between the remaining menhirs are 8.40 m (between 1 and 2) and 90.40 m (between 2 and 3).

Menhirs consist of diorite or dolerite, magmatic rocks typical of the region. Several low-rise stones (0.20 m to 0.80 m) were observed around menhirs Nos. 2 and 3. According to archaeologist L. Collin, some blocks could be partially straightened natural outcrops. This site illustrates the megalithic practices of the time, where neolithic communities erected stones for probably ritual or symbolic reasons.

The alignment was listed as historic monuments on January 5, 1971, thereby recognizing its heritage value. Archaeological studies, such as those conducted by Jacques Briard or Louis Chauris, underline its importance in understanding the construction techniques and spatial organization of megalithic sites in Brittany. Research suggests that these alignments could mark assembly sites or cosmological axes, although their exact function remains to be discussed.

The location of the site near the so-called Bringnerault site is estimated with satisfactory accuracy (level 8/10 according to Monumentum). GPS coordinates and cadastral references (park C 118, 81) clearly identify its location in the current landscape. Although partially disappeared, alignment remains a major testimony of the Breton prehistoric heritage.

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