Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Dolmens of Devès are three megalithic monuments located in Martiel, in the department of Aveyron (Occitania region). Neolithic data, these simple dolmens retained their tumulus, a rare feature. They are distinguished by their funeral structure, with sepulchral chambers oriented according to specific azimuths. The largest of the three, surrounded by an elongated tumulus of 23 meters long, has a room of 3 meters by 1.45 meters, oriented to 61°. His cover table has disappeared, but his tumulus remains visible.

The other two dolmens, smaller, are embedded in oval and round tumulus, measuring between 16 and 20 metres of periphery. Their sepulchral rooms, of 2 m2 and 1.2 m2 respectively, are oriented to 113° and 52°. The dolmen named Marin 1 was classified as a historical monument in 1978, although it was initially wrongly located in the neighbouring municipality of Sainte-Croix. These monuments have been studied by local historians such as Abbé Suquet, who mention excavations carried out by Mr. Maruejouls and Abbé Ceres.

The dolmens of Devès illustrate neolithic funeral practices in Occitanie, where the tumulus were used to mark collective burials. Their preservation allows us to study the construction techniques and rituals of the era. Their classification in 1978 underlines their heritage importance, although their precise location is sometimes approximate according to available sources. These monuments also bear witness to historical mistakes, such as confusion with the Dolmens du Devès des Gleyettes, located in the same municipality but distinct.

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