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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Cross of Combronde is a work of Volvic stone dating mainly from the 16th century, although its origin may date back to the 15th century. It has been placed on a modern pedestal, preserving its integrity while adapting to its current environment. Its arms and barrel, of circular section, are reinforced by four ribs in the shape of foothills, an architectural characteristic typical of the monumental crosses of this time. The ends of the upper arms are decorated with stylized cabbage florets, while a four-lobe openwork medallion decorates their crossing.

On one of its faces, the cross presents a sculpted representation of Christ on the cross, framed by the Virgin and Saint John, a classical iconography of the Passion. The other side is dedicated to the Virgin alone, stressing her importance in local devotion. These sculptures, although partially eroded by time, bear witness to remarkable artisanal know-how and strong religious symbolism, peculiar to medieval and reborn public monuments.

Classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 13 March 1961, this cross is now the property of the commune of Combronde. Its initial location, on a small square near the roads (C.D. 19 and R.N. 143), suggests that it played a role both spiritual and practical, perhaps marking a crossroads or a gathering place. The accuracy of its current location is assessed as "a priori satisfactory", with an approximate address at 100 Avenue Étienne Clementel.

Volvic Stone, a local volcanic material, has been widely used in the region for its strength and ease of size. This choice reflects not only the resources available in Auvergne at the time, but also a craft tradition rooted in the work of this specific stone. The openwork medallion and sculpted details, such as the cabbages of the flower, illustrate the influence of late Gothic styles and reborn, where ornamentation becomes more refined without losing its symbolic dimension.

The absence of detailed archival documents in available sources limits the knowledge of the exact circumstances of its creation or its possible sponsors. However, its classification as Historic Monuments attests to its heritage value, both artistic, historical and local. It is a representative example of the cross of crossroads or squares, which are important elements of the religious and social landscape of the French countryside between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

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