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Origin and history

The Daignac Cemetery Cross is a hosanary cross, a type of religious monument that appeared from the 15th century. These crosses, often placed in the centre of the cemeteries, served especially during the blessing of the branches where we sang the Hosanna. They were usually erected thanks to the gifts of rich lords and made by master masons rather than by professional sculptors. Their function was also to highlight the patron saint of the parish, often represented on the sommital cross.

The 17th-century Daignac cross is distinguished by its architectural structure: it rests on an octagonal base (except for the square base) and its barrel is decorated with large spiral grooves between which are carved small roses. The upper part, the cross itself, has two distinct faces. On the east side, we see Christ on the cross framed by Saint John and the Virgin Mary. On the west side, a Saint Christophe, initially carrying Christ on his shoulders, is accompanied by Saint James and a character today unknown.

Since December 24, 1925, the Daignac Cemetery Cross has been protected for historical monuments, highlighting its heritage importance. It is located in front of the gate of the church Saint-Christophe, in the heart of the village of Daignac, in the department of Gironde. This monument illustrates both the local religious art and liturgical traditions of Entre-deux-Mers, a natural region to which Daignac belongs.

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