The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans offers a unique glimpse into Europe’s distant past. This archaeological marvel, inaugurated in 2016, showcases over 6,000 years of history through a complex stratigraphy of Neolithic to Bronze Age artifacts. Visitors can enjoy the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric civilizations, exploring anthropomorphic steles, ritual wells, and monumental burials. With a guided tour and museum visit, the site promises to captivate and enlighten those seeking to uncover the mysteries of this remarkable archaeological treasure.
Key Points
- The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans is a significant archaeological site in Europe, inaugurated in 2016, with over 6,000 years of history.
- The site features a complex stratigraphy with five phases of use from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, including anthropomorphic steles, ritual wells, dolmen, and cist tombs.
- Visitors can participate in a guided tour, which includes historical narratives, visual storytelling, and a symbolic descent through time, showcasing the site’s significance.
- The museum visit is wheelchair accessible, with services available for individuals with disabilities, and amenities such as free toilets and allowance for animals.
- The site provides invaluable insights into the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric European civilizations, with its remarkable preservation of ancient structures aiding historical research.
Overview of the Megalithic Area
The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans is a significant archaeological site in Europe, inaugurated in 2016, that features evidence of over 6,000 years of history.
The site’s complex stratigraphy reveals five phases of use, from the Neolithic period through the Copper Age to the Bronze Age.
The site’s stratigraphy shows five phases of use from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, offering insights into ancient European civilizations.
Excavations have uncovered anthropomorphic steles, ritual wells, and dolmen and cist tombs, indicating it was initially a worship site that later became a necropolis with monumental burials.
This remarkable archaeological treasure trove offers insights into the lives and beliefs of ancient European civilizations.
Looking for more options in Aosta? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Guided Tour Experience
A knowledgeable instructor guides visitors through the Megalithic Area, sharing historical narratives and visual storytelling during the tour. Participants can capture stunning photos as they explore the site.
The visit begins with a symbolic descent through time, showcasing events at various depths. The itinerary covers six sectors, including traces of ancient cult practices, graves, wells, and the alignment of wooden poles leading to the anthropomorphic steles.
The guided tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to better understand the rich history and significance of this remarkable archaeological site.
Museum Visit and Accessibility
Although the visit to the Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans lasts approximately 3 hours, it’s wheelchair accessible, and the site offers services for individuals with disabilities. Amenities include free toilets and the allowance for animals, ensuring a flexible experience. The visit occurs regardless of weather conditions, providing a comfortable tour.
| Amenity | Available |
| — | — |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Facilities for Individuals with Disabilities | Yes |
| Free Toilets | Yes |
| Animal Allowance | Yes |
| Weather-Independent Visit | Yes |
Pricing and Group Information
Pricing for the Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans visit starts at €120 for up to 6 people, with an additional €10 per person for larger groups, plus €7 for museum entrance.
Reservations allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Participants can book now and pay later, keeping travel plans flexible.
The visit occurs regardless of weather conditions, ensuring a flexible experience. Cellphones aren’t permitted during the visit to enhance the experience.
More Great Tours NearbyItinerary and Additional Services
The plan includes arrival in Aosta with personal transport, a visit to the historical center, and lunch in a partner restaurant featuring local dishes for €25 (drinks included).
Participants can return to the station by bus or on foot. Cellphones aren’t permitted during the visit to enhance the experience.
The itinerary covers six sectors, including traces of ancient cult practices, graves, wells, and the alignment of wooden poles leading to the anthropomorphic steles.
The museum visit lasts approximately 3 hours and is wheelchair accessible, with services for individuals with disabilities and amenities like free toilets and animal allowance.
Significance of the Archaeological Site
The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans is a significant archaeological site that provides invaluable insights into the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric European civilizations.
The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans offers invaluable insights into the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric European civilizations.
Excavations have revealed:
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Five distinct phases of use spanning the Neolithic, Copper, and Bronze Ages, showcasing the site’s evolving purpose over millennia.
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Complex stratigraphy, anthropomorphic steles, ritual wells, and monumental tombs that offer glimpses into ancient traditions and belief systems.
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Evidence of the site’s initial use as a worship area, later transitioning into a necropolis with elaborate burial practices.
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The remarkable preservation of these ancient structures, allowing researchers to piece together the site’s rich and multifaceted history.
Highlights of the Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans embark on a captivating journey through time, guided by knowledgeable instructors who bring the site’s rich history to life.
The tour features visual storytelling, allowing visitors to capture stunning photographs. The experience begins with a symbolic descent, showcasing historical events at various depths.
Guests explore six sectors, uncovering traces of ancient cult practices, graves, wells, and the alignment of wooden poles leading to the impressive anthropomorphic steles.
The museum visit lasts approximately 3 hours, with accessible facilities and flexible scheduling regardless of weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Significance of the Anthropomorphic Steles?
The anthropomorphic steles are believed to represent ancient religious or symbolic figures, providing insight into the beliefs and rituals of the cultures that inhabited the site over 6,000 years ago.
What Types of Artifacts Have Been Discovered at the Site?
The excavations at the site have uncovered a range of artifacts, including anthropomorphic steles, ritual wells, and dolmen and cist tombs dating from the Neolithic to Bronze Age periods, providing insights into the site’s complex history and past rituals.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
Participants are not allowed to use cellphones during the tour to enhance the experience. However, they’re welcome to capture beautiful photos of the site throughout the guided visit.
Can Visitors Explore the Site Independently Without a Guided Tour?
Visitors can’t explore the Megalithic Area independently without a guided tour. The site requires a knowledgeable guide to provide historical context and insights, ensuring visitors fully understand the significance of this archaeological wonder.
What Is the Historical Timeline of the Site’s Development?
The site was used from the Neolithic period (end of the 5th millennium BC) through the Copper Age (4th-3rd millennium BC) to the Bronze Age (2nd millennium BC), initially as a worship site and later as a necropolis with monumental tombs.
The Sum Up
The Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans offers a captivating glimpse into Europe’s prehistoric past. With over 6,000 years of history, the site’s rich archaeological treasures, including anthropomorphic steles and monumental burials, provide invaluable insights into the cultural and religious practices of ancient civilizations. A visit to this remarkable destination promises an immersive and educational experience for all who seek to uncover the secrets of our shared human heritage.
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