Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The road cross of Morfontaine, located in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, is an emblematic monument dating back to the first quarter of the 19th century. Although its initial period was associated with the 17th century, its definitive elevation seems to date from the early 1800s. It is attributed to the sculptor Jean Laurent, originally from Joppecourt, because of stylistic similarities with other crosses in the region, notably those of Laix, one of which bears its signature. This cross, initially implanted in the fields at La Fossé de la Croix, was moved before World War I (1914-1918).

His classification as Monument Historique in 1930 was directly linked to the intervention of Albert Lebrun, then president of the French Republic and native of Mercy-le-Haut, a neighbouring commune. This classification, formalized by a decree of 12 December 1930, preserved this local heritage. Today, the cross is located approximately at 1 Ter Rue Albert Lebrun in Morfontaine, and belongs to the commune. Its current location is the result of upheavals related to war and subsequent preservation decisions.

The location of the cross, although documented, remains approximate, with an accuracy estimated at 6/10 according to available data. It reflects the local religious and artistic practices of the 19th century, as well as the dynamics of heritage preservation in the 20th century. Its history also reflects the links between the rural communities of Meurthe-et-Moselle and their cultural heritage, marked by figures such as Jean Laurent and Albert Lebrun.

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