La Hougue Bie is a historic site located on the island of Jersey in the English Channel. It is a complex that includes a Neolithic passage grave, a medieval chapel, and a German military bunker from World War II. La Hougue Bie is one of the most important archaeological and historical sites on the island.

Key features and information about La Hougue Bie:

1. Location:
   • La Hougue Bie is situated in the parish of Grouville on the island of Jersey, which is a British Crown Dependency.
2. Neolithic Passage Grave:
   • The central feature of La Hougue Bie is a Neolithic passage grave, which is a type of burial chamber dating back over 5,000 years to the Neolithic period. The chamber is constructed with massive stones and is covered by a large earth mound.
3. Entrance Passage:
   • The passage grave at La Hougue Bie has a long entrance passage leading to the central chamber. The passage is aligned in such a way that the sun’s rays penetrate the chamber during the equinoxes.
4. Bowl Stones and Artifacts:
   • Within the chamber, there are ancient stones known as “bowl stones,” which are believed to have held offerings. Various artifacts, including pottery and tools, have been discovered at the site.
5. Medieval Chapel:
   • On top of the Neolithic mound, there is a medieval chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. The chapel was constructed in the 12th century and later expanded.
6. Black Virgin:
   • The medieval chapel houses a statue known as the “Black Virgin of La Hougue Bie,” which is a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary. It is considered a significant religious artifact.
7. German Bunker:
   • During World War II, the Germans occupied Jersey, and as part of their defensive fortifications, a bunker was constructed on top of La Hougue Bie. The bunker is now open to the public and provides insights into the island’s wartime history.
8. Archaeological Museum:
   • The site includes an archaeological museum that displays artifacts found at La Hougue Bie and provides information about the island’s prehistoric and historic periods.
9. Cultural Significance:
   • La Hougue Bie is a symbol of Jersey’s rich history and cultural heritage. It reflects the continuity of human activity on the island from the Neolithic era through medieval times to the modern era.
10. Visitor Access:
    • La Hougue Bie is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the Neolithic passage grave, the medieval chapel, the German bunker, and the museum. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals interested in history and archaeology.

La Hougue Bie stands as a tangible connection to Jersey’s past, providing a fascinating journey through different periods of human history on the island. Its diverse features make it a multifaceted site with cultural, religious, and historical significance.