Construction of dolmen Néolithique (≈ 4100 av. J.-C.)
Estimated period of construction of the monument.
1889
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 1889 (≈ 1889)
Official protection by list of 1889.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Dolmen dit La pierre aux loups (cad. E 527): ranking by list of 1889
Origin and history
La Pierre aux Loups is a dolmen located in Joué-du-Bois, Orne department, Normandy. This megalithic monument dates back to the Neolithic period and is distinguished by its large red granite cover table, measuring 5.30 metres long by 4.70 metres wide. It rests partly on another slab, forming a funeral chamber 2.65 meters long by 1.88 meters wide and 0.90 meters high. Four stones in front of the building could correspond to the remains of a vestibule.
Ranked as historical monuments in 1889, this dolmen illustrates the funeral architecture typical of Neolithic. The room, of modest dimensions, suggests a collective or family use, while the presence of a possible vestibule indicates a more complex structure than mere graves. The site, although partially preserved, offers rare evidence of funeral practices and beliefs of prehistoric societies in the region.
The dolmen is located at approximately 209 La Barillière, 61320 Joué-du-Bois, according to the GPS coordinates available. Its state of conservation and accessibility are not specified in the sources, but its ancient ranking underscores its heritage importance. The data archived in the Merimée database confirm its protected status under the name Dolmen dit La Pierre aux Loups, with a cadastral reference (E 527).
