The Cairn of Barnenez, also known as Barnenez Mound or Barnenez Tumulus, is a Neolithic burial mound located on the Kernelehen Peninsula in northern Brittany, France. It is one of the oldest and largest megalithic structures in Europe, dating back to the early 4th millennium BCE. The Cairn of Barnenez is often referred to as a “tumulus” or a burial mound, and it is recognized for its impressive size and the architectural complexity of its chambers.

Key features and information about the Cairn of Barnenez:

1. Location:
   • The Cairn of Barnenez is situated on the Kernelehen Peninsula, near Plouezoc’h, in the Finistère department of Brittany, France. It overlooks the Bay of Morlaix.
2. Construction Date:
   • The construction of the Cairn of Barnenez dates back to around 4800 to 4200 BCE, making it one of the oldest known megalithic structures in Europe.
3. Tumulus Structure:
   • The Cairn of Barnenez is a massive tumulus, or burial mound, constructed using large stones and earth. It measures about 72 meters in length, 25 meters in width, and reaches a height of 8 meters. The structure is composed of two main burial chambers.
4. Chambers and Passages:
   • The tumulus contains 11 burial chambers, accessed through a series of passages. The chambers are built using large, vertical stones, creating distinctive megalithic architecture. The passages lead to the central chamber, which is the largest and most elaborate.
5. Central Chamber:
   • The central chamber of the Cairn of Barnenez is a complex structure with a corbelled roof. The chamber contains multiple side chambers, creating a series of interconnected spaces. The walls are adorned with engraved symbols and carvings.
6. Burial Practices:
   • The Cairn of Barnenez served as a communal burial site, with evidence suggesting that it was used for successive burials over an extended period. Human remains, pottery, and artifacts have been discovered within the chambers.
7. Artistic Elements:
   • The stones within the Cairn of Barnenez are decorated with carved symbols, including zigzags, cup marks, and other abstract motifs. These engravings add to the site’s artistic and symbolic significance.
8. Cultural Context:
   • The Cairn of Barnenez is associated with the Neolithic people of the region and reflects the cultural and funerary practices of the time. It provides insights into the social organization and religious beliefs of the early agricultural communities.
9. Preservation:
   • Despite centuries of exposure to the elements, the Cairn of Barnenez has been remarkably well-preserved. Conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect and maintain this significant archaeological site.
10. Visitor Access:
    • The Cairn of Barnenez is open to visitors, allowing them to explore the exterior of the tumulus and its chambers. Interpretative panels provide information about the site’s history, architecture, and archaeological findings.

The Cairn of Barnenez is a testament to the advanced construction skills and cultural practices of the Neolithic people in Brittany. Its impressive size and architectural complexity contribute to our understanding of early European civilizations and their approach to communal burials and megalithic structures.