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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

La Croix de la Perière is a monumental cross located in Wassy, in the Haute-Marne department, in the Grand Est region. Although often dated from the 16th century, some elements suggest a more complex origin, with parts dating back to the 17th century. It is distinguished by its twisted barrel decorated with agricultural motifs (wine, laurel, bird, snail) and its Corinthian capital, bearing a cross representing crucifixion on one side and a Virgin with Child on the other. Its initial location was near the castle, at the entrance to the suburbs of La Perrière.

In 1749, the municipality of Wassy decided to move the cross to its current location, Mauljean Street, for reasons not specified in the sources. This displacement is accompanied by reparations, marking a desire for preservation. The cross is officially classified as historical monuments by decree of 26 September 1903, thus recognizing its heritage value. In 1912, a wrought iron gate, designed by architect Tillet, was added around the monument, strengthening its protection and integration into the urban space.

At a height of 4.40 meters, the cross rests on a square, moulure base, topped by a twisted column and a Corinthian capital. The grid surrounding the monument is approximately 1.20 metres high and forms a 2.50 metre square. These architectural details, combined with its symbolic decoration, illustrate the religious and artistic importance of the cross in the local heritage. The sources also mention a location accuracy deemed "a priori satisfactory", confirming its anchoring in the Wassy landscape.

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