Initial construction XVIe siècle (≈ 1650)
Period of construction of the cross.
1701
Partial reconstruction
Partial reconstruction 1701 (≈ 1701)
Date engraved on the summer.
11 juin 1930
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 11 juin 1930 (≈ 1930)
Registration by ministerial decree.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Stone 16th century cross: inscription by decree of 11 June 1930
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character cited
The source text does not mention any individuals.
Origin and history
La Croix d'Uffarges is a monumental cross located in Saint-Julien-d'Ance, in the Haute-Loire department, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Dated from the 16th century, it is located in front of the chapel of Uffarges, on the communal territory. Although it bears the engraved date of 1701, it seems to indicate a subsequent re-building, the cross itself being anterior. It has been listed as historic monuments since 11 June 1930.
Architecturally, the cross has a cylindrical topped with an ionic capital, while the square cross is decorated with cruciform florets at its ends. On the iconographic plane, she bears a cross Christ on one side, and on the other, a Virgin of pity, sitting and holding the body of Christ on her knees. These representations reflect the prevailing religious themes of the time.
The pedestal of the cross rests on a rock backed by the chapel, highlighting its integration into the local landscape. The monument, owned by the commune, bears witness to the importance of the monumental crosses in the public and religious spaces of the region during the Renaissance. These structures often served as spiritual landmarks and symbols of collective devotion for rural communities.
