The allée-couverte is the most prominent example of the passage grave to be found in Brittany. This particular style of construction is of a later period , having developed from the more ancient passage graves. The earliest graves consisted of longer passages to an inner chamber. As traditions changed the emphasis became the burial chamber itself until, at the end of the Neolithic period, the passage portion disappeared altogether and left simple upright stones (orthostats) with large capstones. This construction is termed Dolmen.

At the left is Liscuis II, one of three superb examples of the allée-couverte found in the Côte d'Armor, within an easy bike from your lodgings.

These graves are mostly exposed stones today but their original construction used either drywall stone walls or earth as covering the inner structure. Seen on the right is one of the best examples of a enclosed passage grave. Les Pierres-Plats, as it is called, is located near Carnac. This site contains some very nice carvings. (Refer to the pictures on the Introduction page).

This particular grave is referred to as an allée-coudée or angled passage grave. The passage runs 19m and has 13 decorated stones.