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Origin and history

The Cross of Estivareilles is a historical monument composed of two blocks of granite: one forming the barrel, the other the capital and the cross itself. It is representative of the Forezian crosses of the first half of the eighteenth century, although its style also evokes older models. The date of 1747, engraved on its base, seems to correspond to its shift to its current location, authorized by the Sire de l'Hermuzière, coseur of the village. The local archives, consulted by Abbé Deveille, confirm this hypothesis.

In 1899, during a religious mission, the base of the cross was rebuilt, as indicated by the inscription MISSION 1899 / PATER-AVE / INDULGENCE 40 DAYS. This base thus bears the trace of a late devotional practice, while the original stone shows signs of degradation, in particular a progressive offending. The cross was partially classified as Historic Monument in 1949, with protection limited to the barrel and cross dated 1741 (or 1747 according to the sources).

Today, the cross stands in the Church's square in Estivareilles, in the Loire department. Its current state reflects both its seniority and subsequent interventions, such as the restoration of the base. Although its exact location is considered fair (note 5/10), it remains a material testimony of local religious and seigneurial practices in the 18th century. The mention of a 40-day indulgence in 1899 also underscores its role in popular piety at the time.

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