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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The megalithic ensemble of the Bois de la Chenaise, located in Distré in the department of Maine-et-Loire, is an archaeological site whose architecture remains poorly understood due to the absence of extensive excavations. It could be two dolmens accompanied by their tumulus, about 30 meters apart, but now very degraded. Visible remains include artificially arranged slabs, suggesting a sepulchral chamber and a possible portico to the west, while to the east, the arrangement of natural or displaced stones does not allow to distinguish a clear structure.

The site was listed as historic monuments by order of 17 December 1975, thus recognizing its heritage importance. Protected features include dolmen remains and a hill 30 metres west. Despite its state of ruin, this site bears witness to neolithic funeral practices in the region, although its precise history and exact use remain uncertain in the absence of complete archaeological studies.

The location of the site, near Chesnaie Street in Distré, is approximate, with cartographic accuracy considered poor (level 5 of 10). This monument illustrates the challenges posed by the conservation and interpretation of megalithic sites, often fragmented and difficult to date accurately. Its inscription among historical monuments aims to preserve these tangible traces of the prehistoric past of the region of Pays de la Loire.

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