Construction of the cross 1772 (≈ 1772)
Date engraved on the truncated base.
3e quart XVIIIe siècle
Construction period
Construction period 3e quart XVIIIe siècle (≈ 1862)
Attested by sources (Monumentum).
11 juin 1930
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 11 juin 1930 (≈ 1930)
Registered by ministerial decree.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Stone 17th century cross in the hamlet of Bonnefond : inscription by decree of 11 June 1930
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character cited
The sources don't mention any actors.
Origin and history
The cross of Seneujols, erected in 1772, is a monumental cross located on the roadside, near the main square of the commune. It is distinguished by its red volcanic lava cruise, of square section, adorned with double grooves and with extremities evading in the shape of a Maltese cross. A statuette of Christ, popular and rustic, adorns one of its sides, while the other remains without decoration. The cylindrical drum, moulded at the ends, rests on a truncated base bearing the engraved date of 1772.
The cross was inscribed as historical monuments by order of 11 June 1930, thus recognizing its heritage value. It is characteristic of the Velay and Haute-Loire crosses, often made of volcanic lava, a local material. This type of monument, common in the region, served as both a landmark and a religious symbol for the inhabitants, often marking places of assembly or crossroads.
According to available sources, including Jean Chaize's work on the Velay crosses, this monument illustrates the religious folk art of the late eighteenth century. The simplicity of his statuette of Christ and the absence of decoration on the posterior side reflect local artisanal production, destined for a rural community. The cross is now owned by the municipality of Séneujols and remains accessible to the public, although its state of conservation is not specified in the sources consulted.
