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A significant archaeological discovery has been made in Champigny-sur-Marne, in the Val-de-Marne department, where experts have unearthed a rare burial site dating back to the Middle Neolithic period (4700-4350 B.C.). The find was officially announced by the National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (Inrap) on Monday, November 2, 2026.
A Site of Historical Significance
The excavation, which has been ongoing for several months between 134 and 148 Rue de Verdun, was initiated as part of a local real estate development project. The site has yielded an exceptionally rich collection of artifacts and structures, providing a rare glimpse into prehistoric life in the Île-de-France region.
Key Findings at the Excavation Site:
- 30 megalithic blocks: Including a remarkable statue-menhir.
- 11 ancient graves: Containing various burial positions.
- Diverse structures: Remnants made of wood, earth, and stone.
The statue-menhir is particularly impressive, measuring three meters in length and weighing nearly 10 tons. Upon closer inspection, researchers identified a carved belt and small holes on the stone, suggesting it may have been abandoned after collapsing.
Insights into Neolithic Life
The eleven graves were located within eroded pits. Among the remains, archaeologists identified a woman lying on her back, an adult in a seated position, and another individual lying down. The presence of a post hole near the skulls likely served as a marker for the burial site. Additionally, various tools, including axes, armatures, blades, and points, were discovered in the vicinity of the skeletons.
Inrap researchers plan to conduct detailed analyses of these findings to determine the age, sex, and health status of the individuals. These studies will also provide crucial information regarding their diet, origins, and mobility during a period that remains poorly documented in the Paris region.
While traces of Neolithic human presence had been previously observed in Champigny-sur-Marne, including a 4,000-year-old tomb discovered in 2018, the current site is of unprecedented scale and importance for understanding the region’s prehistoric heritage.
Source: Actu.fr
