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Origin and history

The road cross of Polminhac, erected in the 16th century, is an emblematic monument of religious art of this period. Its base, cubic at the base and then in the shape of a pyramid trunk, supports an octagonal barrel decorated with mouldings. At its lower part, two high-relief characters, probably the Virgin and Saint John, frame the amount. On the main faces, the Virgin with the Child and Christ crucified with the inscription INRI are carved in round-bosse, while stylized leaves in palmettes adorn the ends of the arms of the cross.

Prior to 1950, this calvary was at the east entrance of a bridge over the creek of Costes, north of its current location. Its artistic style, typical of the 16th century, reflects local traditions of religious sculpture. Ranked a Historic Monument by order of 9 June 1971, it belongs today to the municipality of Polminhac and is located along the C.D. 57, near the Rue des Écoles. Its initial location, near a crossing point (the bridge), suggests a role both spiritual and practical for the travellers or pilgrims of the time.

Architectural details, such as the moulded band topped with a tore or palmettes, illustrate the know-how of the artisans of the time. The lack of precise cadastration (public domain) and its subsequent displacement testify to changes in the landscape and preservation needs. This monument, although of approximate location (precision estimated at 6/10), remains a valuable testimony of the rural religious heritage of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

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