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Origin and history

The cross of Bains is a monumental wrought iron cross, located behind the bedside of Sainte-Foy church, in the commune of Bains, in Haute-Loire (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes). Dated from the 4th quarter of the 18th century, it is distinguished by its structure consisting of two metal rods interlaced with diamond, volute and hand forged circles. Its central crusillon has a heart where flowers radiate, while its extremities adorn with lily flowers. This monument, representative of the local crafts of the period, bears witness to the expertise of the Velay blacksmiths.

The cross was inscribed as historical monuments by order of 11 June 1930, thus recognizing its heritage value. It rests on a square masonry base, typical of the monumental crosses of the region. Its iconography, mixing religious symbols (heart, flower of lilies) and geometric motifs, reflects the artistic and spiritual influences of the Upper Loire at the end of the Old Regime. The sources, including Jean Chaize's work on the Velay crosses, underline its importance in the local cultural landscape.

The monument is part of a historical context marked by the presence of road or cemetery crosses, often erected for devotional or commemorative reasons. In the Haute-Loire, these crosses also served as reference points for pilgrims or processions, while affirming the Christian identity of rural communities. The cross of Bains, by its size and careful decoration, suggests an easy sponsor or a collective will to mark a sacred place near the parish church.

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