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Origin and history

The cemetery cross of Kernascleden is a historical monument located in the cemetery of the municipality of the same name, in Morbihan (Brittany). Built in the 16th century, this stone cross is distinguished by its elaborate base, an old altar adorned with bas-reliefs representing major religious scenes: the Last Supper, the Tombing, the Downhill Descent and the Resurrection. Its architecture combines Gothic elements, such as rinceaux and committed columns, reflecting the Breton funerary art of the time.

Originally placed in the former Kernascleden cemetery, the cross was moved in 1878 to its current location, as evidenced by the date engraved on its base. This relocation coincides with a partial restoration of the monument. The cross has been protected as historical monuments since June 15, 1925, recognizing its heritage and artistic value. His iconography, including Christ in crocifixion on the front and the Virgin Mary on the back, makes him a remarkable example of Breton calvaries.

The base of the cross, functioning as an altar, presents a salient table decorated with mouldings and surmounted by columns at the corners. The four sides of the altarpiece illustrate biblical episodes in bas-relief, while the upper part, in the form of a calvary, dominates the whole. Although restored, the cross retains traces of its late medieval origin (2nd half of the 15th century according to some sources), while integrating stylistic elements of the 16th century. Today owned by the municipality, it remains accessible in the enclosure of the current cemetery.

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