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Origin and history

The Cromlech de la Croix Bonnin is a megalithic monument located in the commune of Beaulieu-lès-Loches, in the department of Indre-et-Loire. Composed of five blocks of puddingue arranged in pentagon around the base of a mission cross, it occupies a high point to the east of the village, at the border of the neighbouring communes of Ferrière-sur-Beaulieu and Perrusson. Although classified as historical monuments by 1889, its neolithic origin remains uncertain: it could be a circle of prehistoric stones reused later, or simply a protective arrangement around a calvary.

The hypothesis of a cromlech has been advanced since 1812, but its megalithic character is disputed because of the lack of clear archaeological evidence. The stones, with a maximum height of 0.80 metres, could be the remains of a Christian structure as well as a pagan monument. A local legend says that these blocks would represent two newlyweds and three musicians petrified for disrespect in a procession. Another tradition evokes the burial of an English general during the Hundred Years War, although there is no historical evidence to support this claim.

The site has been protected since its classification in 1889, making it one of the first megalithic monuments recognized in France. Despite doubts about its dating, it shows an early interest in preserving prehistoric remains, even when their authenticity is discussed. Today, cromlech remains an emblematic place of local heritage, mixing history, legends and archaeological questions.

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