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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Cemetery Cross of Selles is an emblematic monument located in the municipality of Selles, Normandy. Dated from the second half of the 15th century, it is a typical example of medieval cemetery crosses, often erected to mark a sacred place or commemorate a religious or funeral event. Its listing in the 1961 inventory of historic monuments underscores its heritage importance and its role in local history.

In the 15th century, the cemetery crosses played a central role in the lives of rural communities. They served not only as a religious landmark, but also as a gathering place for ceremonies and processions. In a region like Normandy, marked by a strong Christian tradition and a social organization around parishes, these monuments symbolized both the collective faith and the territorial anchor of the inhabitants.

The cross of Selles, located in Place de la Mairie, is now protected as a communal property. Its location, in the heart of the village, reflects its integration into past and present daily life. Although the available sources do not specify the details of its construction or possible sponsors, its style and dating make it a valuable witness to the art and beliefs of the late Middle Ages in Normandy.

The inscription of the cross as a historical monument, by decree of 24 November 1961, guarantees its preservation and enhancement. This status also helps to document its history and raise public awareness of its cultural importance. The references available, notably in the Mérimée and Monumentum bases, confirm its architectural and historical interest, while stressing the need to continue the research to enrich the knowledge about it.

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