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Origin and history

Keriaval Dolmen, also known as Mané-Keriaval, is an iconic megalithic monument located in Carnac, Morbihan. This Neolithic site is distinguished by its complex structure, consisting of twenty-two orthostats and three cover tables still in place. It belongs to the architectural type of dolmens in transept, with a central corridor of 9 meters serving three side rooms and a terminal room. Its opening is oriented eastward, a notable feature of the burials of this period.

The dolmen was the subject of several explorations and excavations in the 19th century. In 1854, W. C. Lukis collected fragments of pottery and six terracotta fusaïoles. A excavation carried out in 1866 by the Morbihan Polymathic Society revealed coals, pottery fragments, terracotta pierced grains, callai washers, flint blades and a quartz fragment. Louis Cappé, in 1876, discovered the fragments of two apod vases. Acquired by the State in 1882, the dolmen was restored by Felix Gaillard, who found the grains of a callai necklace. It has been classified as historical monuments since 1889.

The Keriaval site is part of a dense megalithic landscape surrounded by several other prehistoric monuments. In the immediate vicinity are the Dolmen of Mané-Kerioned 200 meters to the west, the Dolmen of Kluder-Yer 410 meters to the north, the alignment of Crucuny 400 meters to the northeast, and the Menhirs of Keriaval 130 meters to the east. This exceptional concentration of remains demonstrates the ritual and funeral importance of this area during the Neolithic period.

The objects discovered during the excavations, such as fusaïoles, vases, callai trimmings and flint tools, offer valuable insight into the cultural and craft practices of the Neolithic communities of the region. These artifacts suggest activities related to pottery, weaving, trimming and stone carving, reflecting an organized and sedentary society marked by elaborate funeral rites.

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