The sarcophagus
cave-dwelling

The importance of this find comes from the perfect state of the quarry and this particular production. The "trapezoid" shaped sarcophagus dates from the Vth and the VIth century. The surface of the quarry is close to 11,000 square meters and made Doué a prime center of sarcophagus production. Thousands of sarcophaguses were made from stone from these quarries and many can be found in surrounding counties. The production continued until the IXth century. Later, the wells were capped and underground access created. It allowed the quarries to serve as shelters during the Viking invasions.

During your visit, you can glance at the chapel dating from the 13th century. Around 1850, this cave was used, as were other sites in Doué, for the extraction of building stones.

Open to the public since 1997, this "cave aux sarcophages" still has many secrets to reveal

Opened every week-end on May and September and all days from June till August from 2pm to 7pm. All year long for the groups of at least 5 persons (inquire).