Located softly at the fringe of a beech grove near Bronneger, D21 and D22 are two of five dolmens scattered throughout the surrounding area. Dolmen D21, shaded by a characteristic beech tree and made from large glacial boulders, is notable for its relative completeness and impressive look. Just 30 meters away, D22 is smaller and more damaged, with two capstones now resting close to a tree's roots. The area is typically surrounded by farmland and woods, with several other dolmens visible nearby.
Archaeological and Historical Findings
Excavations at Dolmen D21 have identified it as one of the richest archaeological sites of its kind. Archaeologists uncovered pottery fragments from at least 600 vessels, including various forms such as funnel beakers, spoons, flasks, dishes, and urns, demonstrating its use by the Funnel Beaker Culture around 3400 BCE. The dolmen consists of local glacial stones and originally featured a stone chamber covered with earth, serving as a communal burial site. Though in a poor state, D22 shares this architectural tradition and is recognized as the smallest remaining dolmen in Drenthe. Both sites show signs of multiple phases of use, indicated by varied artifacts and disturbed burial layers, reflecting repeated rituals and visits over time.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Visitors can park along Popdilweg outside Bronneger, from where a flat, rural path of about 600 meters (roughly a 10-minute walk) leads to the dolmens. The route mostly consists of grass and compacted sand with few inclines and no stairs; the final stretch near the stones may present uneven footing due to exposed roots and stones. Access to the dolmens is free and there is no need for a guide to visit the site.
