The Churchyard Cross
The Cross is thought to date from 15th century and is larger and better preserved than many of this age. The carvings on the lantern are still very visible.
It is considered to be of Welsh and UK significance and as such is listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and is Grade 1 listed. In 2021 extensive conservation was undertaken by Elliot Ryder Conservation, funded by The Pilgrim’s Trust.
During winter, on the advice of Cadw, the lantern on top of the Cross is covered to protect it from weathering.
Description
A tall rectangular section canopy sits atop a tall, slender cross shaft. The rather squat cross base which displays deep chamfer all around the top, overlies a four tiered stepped base. The whole looks in proportion save for the lantern which appears to be elongated in proportion in relation to the cross shaft and base underneath.
The figurative carving on each elevation of the lantern is in niches under cusped and crocketed canopies, are well worn but still discernible, with a depiction of the Crucifixion on the west elevation, the Pieta on the east and figures of Saints on the north and south elevations.
The lantern is carved from a medium grained, dark cream/buff coloured sandstone.
The stepped base is made from a coarse grained sandstone, lighter in colour than the carved decorative stone. The lower stone displays an inherent iron mineral component.
The bedding plane can clearly be seen over the weathered and eroded column shaft and cross base.
The lantern/cross shaft and base were calculated as weighing 490kg and 260kg respectively. The stepped plinth was calculated as weighing 20,180kg, giving a combined weight of 21 tonnes.