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Origin and history

The Cross of Saint-Julien is a boundary cross erected in the Montagnette massif, probably around 1367, during the second half of the 14th century. This monument, located in Boulbon in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, bears the arms of Archimbaud, seigneur of Boulbon, engraved on its four sides. It was used to define the territory between the communes of Boulbon and Barbentane, reflecting medieval practices of marking seigneurial or communal boundaries.

On the iconographic plane, the cross presents a symbolic orientation: its southern face bears a Christ on the cross, while the opposite face (north) represents the Virgin to the Child. These religious motifs, typical of medieval Christian art, underline its dual function as a territorial landmark and object of devotion. The cross was classified as Historic Monument by decree of 18 November 1999, thus recognizing its heritage and historical value.

The monument is part of the political and social context of 14th century Provence, marked by feudal tensions and conflicts of delimitation between seigneuries. The boundary crosses, like that of Saint-Julien, played a legal and practical role in materializing the limits, while affirming the authority of the local lord — here Archimbaud de Boulbon — through his coat of arms. Their preservation until the contemporary era offers a tangible testimony of medieval territorial structures.

Today owned by the commune of Boulbon, the cross is located in the Bouisses and Abrigans district, with geographical accuracy estimated to be satisfactory (note 6/10). Although its current access or vocation (visit, cult, etc.) is not specified in the sources, its classification as Historic Monuments guarantees its protection and presentation in the Provencal heritage.

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