Dehus Dolmen: A Window to Guernsey's Neolithic Past

The Déhus Dolmen, also known as Le Déhus, is a fascinating Neolithic dolmen located in the parish of Clos du Valle on the island of Guernsey. This impressive passage grave, dating back to around 4000 BC, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and burial practices of Guernsey's early inhabitants. The dolmen is a corridor tomb delimited by about thirty orthostats. It is buried under a circular tumulus surrounded by a wall of facing consisting of an alternation of large blocks of standing stone and stones laid flat. The entrance opens to the northeast, towards the coast. It is enhanced by a trilith. The corridor, oriented east / west, is 3 m long and 1 m wide. It is covered with four slabs of cover. It serves several side rooms and leads to a terminal room. Inside the tomb, one of the capstones features a remarkable carving known as 'Le Gardien du Tombeau' (The Guardian of the Tomb), a depiction of a bearded face, arms, and hands, along with what appears to be a strung bow and symbolic designs. This carving is a unique example of prehistoric art and offers insight into the beliefs and artistic abilities of the people who constructed the dolmen. Excavations at the site have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including human bones, pottery, and tools, providing valuable information about the dolmen's use over time. The dolmen has been excavated several times. The present appearance of the building dates from the restoration of 1932. Visitors can explore the Dehus Dolmen and immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings. Informational signage guides tourists through its fascinating history.