St Donat's Churchyard Cross

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The monument consists of a free standing cross probably dating to the early medieval or medieval period, which stands in the churchyard south of the church. The total height of the monument is c4.8m including a square base of two steps. Set on the steps is a symmetrically square cross base with sides of 0.5m which is chamfered at the top corners and edges forming an octagonal setting for the pillar. The pillar is 2.5m high and is initially square at the bottom but octagonal and slightly tapering for the majority of its length. The pillar is topped by a carved top c0.8m high, with an octagonal base with rosettes on each facet. Above this it is roughly rectangular, with a carved figure on the east side and the crucifixion on the west side. Above both carvings are gothic arches.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of the organisation and practice of Christianity. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. A cross may be part of a larger cluster of monuments and their importance can further enhanced by their group value.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.