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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Menhir de Haute-Borne is a megalithic monument erected during the Neolithic period, reflecting the cultural and religious practices of that period. Originally, it was 7 metres high, making it a major landmark in the local landscape. Its construction reflects the importance of menhirs as territorial markers or spiritual symbols for prehistoric communities in the region.

In the 18th century, the menhir suffered irreversible damage during excavations at its base, breaking into two parts. This type of intervention, common at the time, often sought to discover treasures or to understand the origins of these structures, but was often made redundant by their degradation. Despite this incident, the Menhir retains exceptional heritage value.

Ranked as historic monuments in 1889, the Menhir de Haute-Borne enjoys early protection, stressing its importance for the national heritage. This ranking is part of a desire to preserve megalithic remains, then threatened by urbanization and intensive agriculture. Today, there remains a rare testimony of neolithic constructions in the Great East.

Located at the border of the municipalities of Avize, Cramant and Oiry, in the department of Marne, this menhir illustrates the geographical distribution of megalithic sites in Champagne. Its location, in a renowned wine region, contrasts with its ancient origin, recalling the historical diversity of French landscapes. La Marne has several other menhirs, forming a network of protected sites.

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