Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Apinac Cross is a listed historical monument dating from the first half of the 16th century. It consists of a base, a monolithic barrel with an engraved base, and a monolithic cross, adorned with high relief figures. The inscription on the basis of the cask, translated into modern French, mentions: "L'Ouvre JOINTE DE DAMOND [et] DUPUY", suggesting a collaboration between these two characters for its realization. Originally, it was at the crossroads of the D104 and the road leading to Pommiers, in the Bourgeat district, hence its traditional name of Croix de la Bourgeat. It was moved to its current location during the twentieth century, without specifying the exact date of this transfer.

The structure has undergone changes over the centuries: the upper part of the barrel has been shortened to an indefinite period, and cleaning and consolidation work was carried out in 1997 to preserve its condition. Classified as a Historical Monument by decree of 16 December 1949, this cross is now owned by the municipality of Apinac. It is now located opposite the gate of a rampart, at the approximate address of 128 Rue du Château. Its GPS location is considered "passable" (note 5/10), reflecting relative impreciseness in available geographic data.

The monument illustrates the rural religious art of the Renaissance in Forez, a historical region integrated with the present-day Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Crosses of this type often served as spiritual or commemorative landmarks, marking the crossroads or village entrances. Their iconography, although partially eroded by time, bears witness to the devotional practices and local artisanal know-how of the sixteenth century.

External links