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Origin and history

The Menhir de La Roche Carrée, also known as Menhir du Chenot, is an iconic megalithic vestige located in Médréac, in the department of Ille-et-Vilaine. This monument, dated from the Neolithic, is distinguished by its pyramidal shape and quadrangular base, carved in quartzite. Originally, its height was 5 meters, but later embankments reduced its visible size to 4.40 meters today. Its width and thickness at the base are 2,10 meters and 2,05 meters respectively.

In the immediate vicinity of the menhir, a rectangular (1.80 m x 1.20 m) quartzite stone was mentioned in the 19th century by Paul Bézier in his megalithic inventory of Ille-et-Vilaine. According to L. Collin's observations, this basin had disappeared in the 1930s, although it may have been buried during the elevation of the surrounding soil. This menhir is also located close to other notable megalithic sites, such as the alignments of Lampouy on the same municipality and the menhir from La Pierre Longue to Guitté.

Ranked as historical monuments by order of 18 September 1929, the Menhir de La Roche Carrée bears witness to the importance of megalithic constructions in the region. Archaeological studies, including those conducted by Jacques Briard, Loïc Langouët and Yvan Onnée, highlight his role in the local prehistoric landscape. This research highlights the techniques of size and erection of these stones, as well as their possible symbolic or ritual function in neolithic societies.

The site is also documented in more recent works, such as those published in Les Dossiers du Ce.R.A.A in 2003, which analyze the megalithic alignments of Lampouy. These studies contribute to a better understanding of the cultural and religious practices of the people of the time. The menhir, with its unique architectural features, remains a notable example of the Breton megalithic heritage.

The precise location of the menhir, indicated as being at the place called Le Chenot (5223 Le Chenot, 35360 Médréac), is listed in the Merimée database under the code Insee 35171. Although the accuracy of its location is considered satisfactory a priori (level 6/10), adjustments may be necessary for finer identification. The site is accessible to the public, although practical information on visits is not detailed in available sources.

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