Breakthrough Study Confirms Age of Europe’s Oldest Megaliths in France

Recent archaeological advancements have established that the Carnac megaliths located in the Bay of Morbihan, France, represent Europe’s oldest known megalithic structures. A definitive study published in the journal Antiquity on June 29, 2025, reveals that these iconic stone alignments were constructed between 4600 and 4300 cal B.C.E., marking a significant milestone in understanding early human history and megalithic traditions.

The Carnac stone alignments, spanning over six miles and consisting of more than 3,000 standing stones, have long fascinated both researchers and the public. The study, led by archaeologist Bettina Schulz Paulsson from the University of Gothenburg, employed advanced radiocarbon dating techniques and Bayesian statistical modeling to achieve unprecedented chronological precision regarding the origins of these ancient monuments. This research was particularly challenging due to the acidic soils in the region, which hindered the preservation of organic materials typically used in radiocarbon dating.

According to Dr. Paulsson, “Thanks to nearly 50 radiocarbon dates and the application of Bayesian statistical modeling, we were able to reconstruct the site’s history with unprecedented chronological precision.” This breakthrough not only clarifies the timeline of the Carnac megaliths but also emphasizes the importance of the region in the broader context of megalithic culture across Europe.

The study indicates that the construction of the Carnac megaliths occurred during the Neolithic period, a time when early human societies were transitioning to more complex social structures. The presence of these monumental stone arrangements suggests significant cultural, ceremonial, or possibly astronomical purposes for the communities that built them. However, the exact intent behind their construction remains a subject of ongoing investigation.

In conjunction with the study of the stone alignments, the excavation of a site known as Le Plasker revealed a monumental tomb dating back to approximately 4700 cal B.C.E. This tomb was constructed atop a Mesolithic hunter-gatherer hut, indicating a continuity of human occupation and evolving burial practices in the region. The findings from Le Plasker provide critical insights into the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to more settled agricultural communities, underscoring the complexity of social structures during this period.

The significance of the Carnac megaliths extends beyond their age; they serve as a testament to the organizational capabilities of Neolithic populations. As archaeologists continue to investigate these ancient structures, the implications for understanding prehistoric European societies become increasingly profound. The discovery at Carnac not only reshapes the historical narrative surrounding megalithic cultures but also highlights the ongoing importance of archaeological research in uncovering the mysteries of human history.

Looking ahead, the continued exploration of the Carnac region may yield further revelations about early human civilization. As new technologies and methodologies emerge in archaeological science, researchers are optimistic about uncovering additional layers of history embedded within these ancient stones. The Carnac megaliths will undoubtedly remain a focal point for scholars and enthusiasts alike, as they represent a rich tapestry of human achievement and cultural heritage in Europe.