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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The stone cross of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne is an emblematic structure located on the old bridge of the commune, in the department of l'Yonne. Although called "stone cross", only its base is actually limestone, identical to that of the bridge, while the cross itself is iron. It is commonly called the cross of Saint Nicholas, although the sources do not specify the exact origin of this name or its connection with the patron saint of the boatmen or travelers.

The building was listed as historic monuments by order of 3 June 1932, thereby recognizing its heritage value. The Mérimée base, the official reference of the Ministry of Culture, locates it precisely at 1 Rue Joubert, on the bridge crossing the Yonne. Owned by the municipality, this cross illustrates the modest art of medieval or post-medieval religious or memorial monuments, often located at city entrances or on bridges to mark a place of passage or protection.

No detailed historical information is available regarding the date of construction, the sponsor or the specific events associated with it. Sources are limited to its physical description and legal status. The Burgundy-Franche-Comté region, and especially the Yonne region, has many similar monuments, witness to a local tradition of religious or symbolic signs along river or land routes.

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