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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The cemetery cross of Ahaxe is an emblematic monument located in the town of Ahaxe-Alciette-Bascasan, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Dated from the 2nd quarter of the 19th century, it represents a typical example of popular art of this time, marked by simple forms and a strong religious symbolism. This type of cross was often erected in cemeteries to mark the sacred space and serve as a spiritual landmark for the inhabitants.

Classified as a Historical Monument by order of 28 April 1987, this cross is now protected for its heritage value. It belongs to the commune and illustrates the importance of funeral monuments in rural villages in southwestern France in the 19th century. These crosses, often of stone or wrought iron, reflected local beliefs and served as a gathering point for religious ceremonies.

The location of this monument, although documented (address: 64220 Ahaxe-Alciette-Bascassan), is considered to be of poor accuracy (level 5 of 10). This can be explained by the evolution of communal boundaries or cadastral references over time. The cross, however, remains a material testimony of local history and regional crafts of the time.

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