Gallery grave

Gallery grave

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Type	Megalithic tomb
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A gallery grave is a type of megalithic tomb that is characterized by a long, narrow burial chamber. These structures are typically constructed using large stones and are covered by an earthen mound or cairn. Gallery graves are found primarily in Western Europe, with notable examples in France, Ireland, and the British Isles.

Structure and Design

Gallery graves are distinguished by their elongated, rectangular shape. The burial chamber is usually aligned along a single axis and may be subdivided into multiple sections or chambers. The walls of the gallery are formed by large upright stones, known as orthostats, which support horizontal capstones. The entire structure is often covered by a mound of earth or stones, which serves to protect the burial chamber and mark the site.

The entrance to a gallery grave is typically located at one end of the structure, and it may be marked by a portal or a series of standing stones. In some cases, the entrance is aligned with astronomical events, such as the rising or setting of the sun at certain times of the year.

Cultural Significance

Gallery graves were constructed during the Neolithic period, a time when human societies were transitioning from a nomadic lifestyle to settled farming communities. These tombs served as communal burial sites, reflecting the social and religious practices of the communities that built them.

The construction of gallery graves required significant communal effort and organization, indicating the presence of complex social structures. The choice of location, orientation, and construction materials often held symbolic significance, reflecting the beliefs and cosmology of the builders.

Examples

Notable examples of gallery graves include:

• Gavrinis in Brittany, France
• Carrowmore in County Sligo, Ireland
• West Kennet Long Barrow in Wiltshire, England

Archaeological Studies

Archaeological investigations of gallery graves have provided valuable insights into the Neolithic period. Excavations have revealed human remains, pottery, tools, and other artifacts, which help to reconstruct the lives and beliefs of the people who built these structures.

Radiocarbon dating and other scientific techniques have been used to establish the chronology of gallery grave construction and use. These studies have also contributed to our understanding of the spread of megalithic traditions across Europe.

Also see

• Megalithic tomb
• Dolmen
• Passage grave
• Neolithic
• Archaeology