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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The road cross of Sauveterre-la-Lémance is a remarkable example of 15th century medieval ironwork. Made of wrought iron, it consists of four twisted rods of circular section, decorated with foliage at the ends of the arms and at the top. A cross Christ, framed in a losange compartment, dominates an openwork ball representing the crown of thorns, symbol of the Passion. These elements are based on a later added stone pedestal. The cross, 2.92 meters high for a span of 1.20 meters, bears witness to the know-how of the artisans of the time.

Originally located in front of the cemetery, on a floor on the other side of the road, the cross was moved to a public garden at the exit of the village, near Loubéjac, in order to highlight it. This move is part of a desire to preserve and enhance the local heritage. The cross was classified as historical monuments by decree of 20 September 1910, recognizing its artistic and historical value.

The historical sources, notably the works of Philippe Camilli and Lauzun and Tholin, underline the importance of this cross in the cultural landscape of Lot-et-Garonne. Its iconography, combining plant motifs and religious symbols, reflects the artistic influences of the late Middle Ages in Aquitaine. Today owned by the municipality, it remains a tangible testimony of sacred art and medieval handicrafts in this region.

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