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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The cross of Fanjeaux is a discoidal cross of 65 cm in diameter, dated the 13th century, located on a bridge built in the 17th century in the commune of Fanjeaux (Aude). Its original location remains unknown. The height, of flat octagonal section, makes body with the disc. The four arms of the cross are separated by almost complete circular ejections, with patted ends. One side has a blessing hand in its centre, while the other side has a lamb bearing an oriflamed cross. Each arm of the cross bears an engraved shield, but the coats are now illegible.

Fanjeaux, cradle of the Dominicans, was an active religious centre in the Middle Ages, home to several brotherhoods, including that of Notre-Dame. The cross, although later fixed on a 17th century bridge, bears witness to this rich spiritual history. It was registered as historical monuments by order of 14 April 1948 and now belongs to the municipality. Its exact location, noted as "a priori satisfactory", is associated with the approximate address 175 A Fanjeaux.

Available sources, including Wikipedia and Monumentum, highlight its heritage importance in the Aude department. The cross illustrates medieval occitan religious art, with symbols such as the blessing hand and lamb, typical of Christian iconography of the time. Its state of conservation and historical value make it a remarkable part of the local heritage, linked to the Dominican heritage of the region.

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