Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The cross of Alairac, located in the Saint-Germain round on the town of Alairac (Aude), dates from the beginning of the seventeenth century. It was erected at the site of the old ditches of the city, marking a transition between medieval fortifications and the emerging urban planning of the modern era. Its frame rests on four square bars curved in quarter of a circle, connected to the ends of the arms by redentated flat iron motifs. These elements draw a four-leaf lanceolate leaflets inside, while on the outside they form four redents adorned with stylized foliage.

The decoration of the cross is distinguished by its arm ends, embellished with two groups of four leaf petals. The first group, at the end, sees its petals oriented towards the point, while the second, simulating sepals, has its tips folded towards the center. No screws, rivets or pins were used for assembly: the unforged elements were joined to the hot-sweet, a traditional hot welding technique. The cross, of which only the wrought iron part is classified, was renovated in 2022.

Listed as historical monuments by decree of 27 April 1948, this cross illustrates the know-how of the Aude blacksmiths in the 17th century. It now belongs to the municipality of Alairac and is integrated into the local religious and artisanal heritage. Its location at the Saint-Germain round, noted with satisfactory accuracy (level 8/10), makes it a visible landmark for visitors exploring the Circade of the village.

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