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Origin and history

The Menhir de la Grouas, also called the right stone or palet de Gargantua, is a megalithic monument located in Martigné-Briand, in the department of Maine-et-Loire (Pays de la Loire). This rectangular sandstone prism is 2.90 metres high. According to historical descriptions, it is the last vestige of a group of eight menhirs, sometimes mistakenly called cromlech. In the vicinity, polished axes and cut flint debris were discovered, attesting to an ancient occupation.

A local legend tells that this stone would be a pallet launched by Gargantua, a mythical giant, aiming at another menhir today destroyed, located 400 meters northeast. Another popular belief is that the menhir would turn on himself at the twelve noon blows. These stories are part of megalith-related folklore, often associated with giant or magical figures.

The menhir was registered as historical monuments by order of 6 December 1982. About 150 metres west is the Grouas polisher, mentioned in a description of 1843 by Henri de Nerbonne. This polisher, like the menhir, testifies to prehistoric activities in the area, related to the size and polishing of stone tools.

The site is located near the Rue du Polissoir, in an area where traces of neolithic occupation are tangible. Although information on its exact use remains limited, its protection as a historical monument underscores its heritage and archaeological importance.

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