Camp préhistorique de Chassey-le-Camp

Camp préhistorique de Chassey-le-Camp is an archaeological site in the village of Chassey-le-Camp, in the Saône-et-Loire department of Burgundy. It is the place that lent its name to an entire Neolithic culture, the Chasséen, and the earthworks built here more than six thousand years ago are still traceable on the wooded plateau above the valley.

What is the camp de Chassey?

The site preserves the remains of a fortified settlement dating from the 4th millennium BCE, laid out on a long plateau sloping toward the east. It covers roughly 9 hectares, stretches over 750 metres in length and up to 230 metres in width, and takes the classic shape of a "barred spur" — natural rock outcrops completed with earth and dry-stone ramparts that sealed off the easiest approach. During the Middle Neolithic, a substantial settlement occupied the plateau, and excavations there uncovered numerous ceramic vessels decorated with geometric engraved patterns, including the "pedestalled vases" that are a hallmark of Chasséen pottery. Given its historical importance, the site was listed as a protected historical monument by decree on 14 June 1932.

How do you get to Chassey-le-Camp?

The site can be reached on foot from the village of Chassey-le-Camp itself or from the neighbouring hamlets of Bercully, Valotte and Corchanu. The GR7 long-distance hiking trail runs directly across the plateau and is marked on most regional hiking maps. Because parts of the terrain are uneven and wooded, sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

What will you see on site?

Along the marked paths, visitors can follow the line of the earthen ramparts and the natural rock formations that were built into the fortifications, with wide views over the valley from the plateau's edge. An on-site archaeological interpretation centre explains the settlement's history and the daily life of its Neolithic inhabitants. The original finds — flint tools and pottery — are not displayed at the site itself: the collection from the Loydreau excavations is held at the Musée Rolin in Autun, while further pieces can be seen at the Musée Denon in Chalon-sur-Saône and the Musée Régnier in Mont-Saint-Vincent.

When to visit and how to tour the site?

The site can be explored independently and free of charge along the marked trails. Guided tours lasting around two hours are also available for groups, though they require a minimum of ten participants. A free brochure in French, English and German, with a map and the highlights of the route, can be picked up at the town hall (1 rue Baboux, 71150 Chassey-le-Camp), which is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Chasséen culture? It is a Middle Neolithic culture that developed across France and northern Italy roughly between 4350 and 3300 BCE. It takes its name directly from the Chassey-le-Camp site, where its distinctive decorated pottery was first identified.

Is entry to the site free? Yes — walking the marked trails on your own is free of charge. Only the guided group tours are a paid option.

Can you visit Chassey without a guide? Yes, the site is open for independent visits along signposted paths, and the GR7 trail passes directly through it.

Where are the objects found during the excavations kept today? Most of the collection, including the flint tools from the Loydreau excavations, is held at the Musée Rolin in Autun, with additional finds on display at the Musée Denon in Chalon-sur-Saône and the Musée Régnier in Mont-Saint-Vincent.