Erected on the small Bondons plateau during the Neolithic period, the 154 menhirs are still standing. This remarkable site is now home to the largest concentration of menhirs in the south of France.
A cluster of menhirs
Between Mont Lozère and the Tarn valley lies a limestone plateau, situated at an altitude of nearly 1,100 metres: the Cham des Bondons. More than five millennia ago, it was on this site, covering nearly 10 km², that the inhabitants of the Neolithic era erected the largest concentration of menhirs in the south of France. Unlike those at Carnac, they do not form an alignment.
Throughout history, these incredible relics were used to construct buildings or were destroyed outright, particularly by Christian priests who saw them as tributes to ancient pagan rites. By the early 19th century, many menhirs lay on the ground or were buried beneath vegetation.
Discover the 154 enchanting silhouettes
Fortunately, since 1980, the site has been attracting growing and welcome interest. Archaeologists and local authorities are now restoring these archaeological artefacts: to date, around a hundred menhirs have been re-erected.
In total, there are exactly 154 left. Populated by distinctive silhouettes, this enchanting landscape of La Cham can be explored on easy walks. A two-hour circular walk awaits you: enjoy your journey through Neolithic lands!
Thematics
