Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The covered stone dolmen is a megalithic building emblematic of the Neolithic, located about 3 kilometers north of the commune of Vaas, in the department of Sarthe. It is located precisely in the Bois des Bouleaux, on the heights of the hamlet of Tertre, at an altitude of about 110 meters. This site, typical of the funeral buildings of the time, bears witness to the cultural and religious practices of local prehistoric societies.

The dolmen was officially recognized for its heritage value and listed as historic monuments on 12 February 1984. This protection highlights its archaeological and historical importance, while ensuring its preservation for future generations. Although details of its exact use or manufacturers remain unknown, its listing is part of a broader approach to safeguarding the Sarthe's megalithic sites.

The available sources, including a bibliographical reference by Jean-Paul Henri Berthet in À la découverte des megalithes en Sarthe (1992), highlight the regional interest in these monuments. The Dolmen de Vaas is thus integrated into a wider network of similar sites, reflecting an ancient and organized human occupation in the Pays de la Loire. His study contributes to a better understanding of the lifestyles and beliefs of the Neolithic communities in this region.

External links