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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

La Croix de Bancillon, also known as Calvaire de Bancillon, is a monumental cross located in Malvières, in the Haute-Loire department, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Dated from 1541 by an inscription engraved, it is distinguished by its double role of doratory and cross of crossroads, isolated in the woods at the historical limits of Velay and Livradois. This territory once depended on the abbey of the Chaise-Dieu, suggesting a link with this powerful religious institution in the region.

The structure rests on a base of more than two meters, housing a Gothic niche decorated with columnettes and an arch with a braid. This niche, protected by a grid, contains a Virgin of pity in stone, object of local devotion. The cross itself presents a Christ crowned with thorns on one side and a Virgin with the Child crowned by an angel on the other, while the arms of the crusillon bear two figures, perhaps St Peter and St James. These iconographic elements reflect the devotional practices of the time, combining protection against epidemics (such as plague) and Marian worship.

Ranked a historical monument by decree of 19 November 1910, the cross of Bancillon bears witness to late Gothic religious art in the Haute-Loire. Its isolation in the woods and the supposed presence of an ancient cemetery nearby reinforce its mysterious and sacred character. The sources, like the works of Jean Chaize on the crosses of the Velay, underline its heritage importance in the local religious and historical landscape, linked to the influence of the Abbey of the Chair-God.

Architecturally, the monument combines simplicity and refinement: a short conical barrel surmounted by a crusillon decorated with florets, typical of the cross of medieval crossroads. The niche of the base, together with his Virgin of pity, suggests a private or community doratory, where the faithful came to pray for protection from the plagues. The date of 1541, although after the 15th century often cited, could indicate a subsequent restoration or consecration.

Today owned by the commune of Malvières, the cross of Bancillon remains a remarkable example of the rural religious heritage, marked by the monastic history of the region. Its classification among historical monuments guarantees its preservation, while offering a tangible testimony of local beliefs and crafts at the crossroads between the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

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