Dolmen D52

Hunebed D52 is a megalithic tomb located in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, in the province of Drenthe. It is one of the many hunebeds that are scattered throughout the region and is estimated to be over 5,000 years old, dating back to the Funnelbeaker culture.

The hunebed is relatively small, consisting of just 4 large upright stones, or orthostats, which support 2 capstones. The entire structure is approximately 5 meters long and 2 meters wide. The capstones, which weigh several tons each, were transported from as far as 10 kilometers away and placed on top of the upright stones to create a roofed burial chamber.

Excavations of the burial chamber revealed the remains of several individuals, along with several artifacts such as pottery, flint knives, and arrowheads. These findings suggest that the hunebed was used as a communal burial site for a small agricultural community.

The construction of hunebeds was an impressive feat of engineering for the time. The builders used stone tools and wooden levers to move the enormous boulders that make up the orthostats and capstones. The builders would have also had to create a level surface for the hunebed, as well as a ramp to transport the heavy stones.

The hunebeds were constructed by the Funnelbeaker culture, a group of early farmers who lived in the region during the Neolithic period. They are named after their distinctive pottery, which has a funnel-like shape.

The Funnelbeaker people were skilled farmers and lived in small communities. They built their homes out of wood and thatch and kept domesticated animals, such as cattle and pigs. They also grew crops such as wheat and barley.

The hunebeds were used as communal burial sites for the Funnelbeaker people. The bodies of the deceased were placed in the burial chamber, along with offerings such as pottery, flint knives, and arrowheads. It is thought that the bodies were left to decompose before the bones were removed and placed in the side chambers of the hunebed.

The hunebeds were in use for several hundred years before falling out of use. It is thought that changes in burial customs, such as cremation, led to the decline of the hunebeds.

In the centuries that followed, the hunebeds were largely forgotten and were used for other purposes, such as as sources of building material for local construction projects. It was not until the 19th century that the hunebeds were recognized as important archaeological sites.

Today, the hunebeds are protected as national monuments and are popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the burial chambers and learn about the history and culture of the Funnelbeaker people.

Hunebed D52 is located near the village of Drouwen and is open to the public year-round. It is situated in a wooded area and is surrounded by walking trails and other recreational opportunities. There is also a small visitor center on the site that provides information about the hunebed and the Funnelbeaker culture.

In conclusion, Hunebed D52 is a fascinating and important archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the lives and customs of the Funnelbeaker people. It is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of these early farmers, and is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Netherlands.