Passage of Saint François Régis 1636-1637 (≈ 1637)
Oral tradition related to the neighbouring oratory.
XVIe siècle
Construction of the cross
Construction of the cross XVIe siècle (≈ 1650)
Construction period attested by sources.
11 juin 1930
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 11 juin 1930 (≈ 1930)
Registration by official order.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Fifteenth century cross: inscription by decree of 11 June 1930
Key figures
Saint François Régis - Jesuit Missionary
Linked by oral tradition.
Origin and history
La Croix de la Pradette is a monumental cross located in the hamlet of La Pradette, Montusclat, Haute-Loire department, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Dated from the 16th century, it is at a crossroads, near an oratory dedicated to Saint Francis Régis. According to oral tradition, the latter would be stopped between 1636 and 1637, an event that would have inspired the construction of a nearby oratory. The cross, with its cylindrical branches, was probably hidden during the French Revolution, allowing it to be preserved.
Iconographically, the cross presents a Christ called "Syriac", recognisable by his twisted crown. At the back, a Virgin with Child is represented standing on clouds, crowned by an angel. These artistic elements reflect the stylistic influences of the time. The cross was listed as historical monuments by order of 11 June 1930, recognizing its heritage value and local importance.
The cross belongs to the municipality of Montusclat and constitutes an architectural and religious testimony of the region. Its elegant style, typical of certain crosses of the Velay, as well as its connection to Saint Francis Régis, make it an emblematic monument. Available sources, including Wikipedia and Monumentum, confirm its inscription and precise location in the hamlet of La Pradette, although geographical accuracy is considered poor (level 5/10).
