Dolmen D26 is a medium-sized Neolithic megalithic tomb located to the west of the village of Drouwen in Drenthe province. Positioned on the Drouwenerveld heathland, the monument is bordered by forest and sandy trails, creating a tranquil setting that highlights its prehistoric roots. The tomb’s distinctive parallel rows of sidestones and capstones form a low, elongated structure, with most of its original stones still in place. Archaeological markers indicate where missing stones once stood. Nearby, other dolmens such as D19 and D20 can be visited, making this area a rich destination for those interested in the Stone Age heritage of the Netherlands.
Archaeological and Historical Findings
Excavations carried out between 1968 and 1970 by the University of Amsterdam yielded important findings at Dolmen D26. The tomb consists of two parallel rows of six sidestones supporting five large capstones, although it remains uncertain if a sixth capstone was originally part of the structure. The entrance passage previously had stones including a capstone, which is now missing. The site once featured a ring of 27 kerbstones around it; currently, only 13 remain visible, and modern concrete markers denote the locations of those no longer present. Archaeologists uncovered approximately 160 complete pottery vessels, in addition to stone weapons, tools, amber beads, and cremated human remains. Outside the burial chamber, an offering pit was found containing two intact ceramic jars, underscoring the ritual importance of the site. Since 1871, the Dolmen has been state property (Rijkseigendom) and is preserved largely in its original form.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
To reach the dolmen, you enter Steenhopenweg from Drouwen and take the second exit on the left onto Veldweg. This field road becomes Lunsveenweg, where you take the first right onto a dirt track that leads to the dolmen. Park the car along the small side road and from there, you have to walk approximately 15 to 20 minutes to reach the site, navigating narrow and poorly paved roads along the way. The route consists of unpaved surfaces that can be sandy or muddy during wet weather. Although there are no steep slopes or steps, uneven terrain may present challenges for visitors with mobility issues. No tickets or entry fees required.
