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Heritage classified

Origin and history

La Croix de Plounérin is a cross of road located in the Côtes-d'Armor department of Brittany. It is distinguished by its representation of a Pietà and by a rare architectural peculiarity: an oblique transverse branch. This monument, dated from the 18th century, is located at a strategic crossroads, linking Plounerin to Plfur, Guerlesquin, and the main road Paris-Brest. Its more recent base and base date back to the 19th century, while the cross itself could go back to at least the 17th century.

The cross was listed as historic monuments by order of 31 March 1926, thereby recognizing its heritage value. It is installed on a three-degree walkway, supporting a square base and a short round section stem. Owned by the commune of Plounerin, it is located precisely on the road to Guerlesquin, near the villages of Bot and Teirgoën. Its state of conservation and its approximate location (precision noted as 'passable') underline the importance of its preservation in the Breton cultural landscape.

This type of road cross played a central role in the religious and social life of Breton communities in the 17th and 18th centuries. They served as spiritual landmarks, often marking crossroads or gathering places. Pietà, a representation of the Virgin holding Christ dead, was a strong symbol of popular devotion, while the oblique form of the cross could reflect local artistic influences or traditions specific to the region. These monuments were also points of prayer for travellers and pilgrims, integrated into the daily lives of the inhabitants.

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