Construction period Néolithique (≈ 4100 av. J.-C.)
Estimated erection of the menhir.
1926
Orne megalithic inventory
Orne megalithic inventory 1926 (≈ 1926)
Mention by Léon Coutier in *The Prehistoric Man*.
26 juin 1981
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 26 juin 1981 (≈ 1981)
Protection of the menhir and its environment.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Menhir called La Droite Pierre, including the blocks of his entourage within a radius of 50 m around (cad. E 30): classification by decree of 26 June 1981
Key figures
Léon Coutil - Archaeologist and inventor
Listed the menhir in 1926.
Origin and history
The menhir called La Droit Pierre is a megalithic monument located in Putanges-le-Lac, in the former commune of Chênedouit (Orne, Normandy). This erect stone block, dating from Neolithic, reaches a height of 2,30 meters. It reflects the cultural and religious practices of local prehistoric societies, which erected these stones for still partially enigmatic reasons (territorial markers, places of worship or burials).
Menhir and its immediate environment (a radius of 50 metres) were classified as historical monuments by order of 26 June 1981. This protection recognizes its heritage and archaeological importance. The site is now owned by the municipality, although its precise location (place called the Right Pierre or 63 La Briconniere in Sainte-Honorine-la-Guillaume) is subject to variations according to the sources.
Menhirs, such as La Droit Pierre, are part of a wider network of Norman megalithic sites, notably in Orne. Their study, initiated at the beginning of the 20th century (as evidenced by the Inventory of Megalithic Monuments of the Orne de Léon Coutil in 1926), makes it possible to better understand the techniques of size, transport and erection of these stones by the Neolithic communities. These monuments often mark landscapes still visible today, despite erosion and agricultural transformations.
