Construction of calvary 2e quart XVIIe siècle (≈ 1737)
Estimated period of construction of the monument.
29 août 1988
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 29 août 1988 (≈ 1988)
Registration by official order.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Sandstone Cross, or Calvary, at the junction of the two paths: inscription by order of 29 August 1988
Origin and history
La Croix de Grès, also known as Calvaire, is located in Fortel-en-Artois, in the department of Pas-de-Calais (Hauts-de-France). Dating from the 2nd quarter of the 17th century, this monument marks a crossroads between two communal ways: the VC 107 connecting Vacquerie-le-Boucq and the VC 5, known as the Doullens-Hesdin Road. Its strategic location, at the junction of these axes, suggests a role both spiritual and practical for the travellers or pilgrims of the time.
Classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 29 August 1988, this cross belongs to the commune of Fortel-en-Artois. Available data indicate an approximate location, noted as passable (level 5/10) in the Merimée database. No information is provided on its current status, accessibility, or any associated services (visits, accommodation).
The calvaries of this period, typical of northern France, often served as religious or memorial landmarks. Their presence along the roads reflected the importance of the Christian faith in the daily life of the countryside, as well as the will of local communities to mark their territory. In the Hauts-de-France, sandstone was a common material for this type of sculpture, due to its availability and relative weather resistance.
