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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Puech Cross Cross, listed as a Historical Monument, stands on the Lodève Road, near a bridge crossing the Aubaigues Creek. Its carved part, dating from the 13th century, was raised in the 18th century on a more recent column barrel. This monument has a marked religious iconography: on one side, a Christ in high relief, clothed in a skirt and covered with a cruciferous nimbe, is framed by an eviscerated cross and a quadrilobed medallion. On the other hand, a Virgin sitting holds the Child standing on her knees, in a symmetrical composition.

The listing of the cross in the inventory of Historic Monuments by decree of 6 June 1933 underlines its heritage value. Although its exact location is approximate (noted 5/10 in precision), it remains a medieval artistic and religious testimony, typical of the cross-roads that once marked the roads and places of passage. Its present state is the result of partial reuse in the 18th century, illustrating the restoration and reuse practices of ancient elements.

The available coordinates place the cross near 7 Boulevard Gambetta in Lodève, although the official address mentions the commune of Puech (code Insee 34220) in Herault. This gap reflects the frequent geographical uncertainties for rural monuments. The cross, now protected, offers a remarkable example of medieval sacred art in Languedoc, mixing Christian symbolism and 13th century sculptural know-how.

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