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Origin and history

The cross of the Nouvotou cemetery is a granite calvary dating from the seventeenth century, located in front of the church of the commune, in the department of Ille-et-Vilaine in Brittany. Its base, adorned with heads of death on the south and north faces, supports a circular canned barrel surmounted by a double-sided cross representing Christ. Four consoles connect the arms of the cross, which culminates at about 4 meters high. This funeral monument, typical of Breton Christian architecture, illustrates the rural religious art of modern times.

Ranked as historical monuments by order of 10 March 1907, the cross belongs to the commune of Nouvotou. His macabre iconography (heads of death) and his double representation of Christ underline his role both memorial and spiritual in the parish cemetery. The sources, including Wikipedia and the Merimée base, confirm its satisfactory conservation status, although its precise location is assessed as "a priori satisfactory" (note 6/10).

The monument is part of a larger heritage complex, including the Saint-Martin church of Nouvotou. Its early ranking (early 20th century) shows interest in Breton calvaries, often associated with funeral practices and popular devotion. Bibliographical references, such as the book by Eugene Royer New Guide to Breton Calvary (1985), highlight its importance in the local religious landscape.

Architecturally, the cross combines symbolic elements (heads of death to recall mortality) and artistic (Christ carved on both sides). Granite, a dominant material in Brittany, strengthens its durability. The canned barrel and decorative consoles reflect a craftsmanship characteristic of the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the monument remains a historical and cultural landmark for the municipality, accessible Church Square.

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