Listed Building: Queen Eleanor's Cross (1286992)

Monumental cross. Shortly after 1290. Discreetly restored 1892. Weldon limestone ashlar. Triangular in plan, with a tall, subtly moulded basement divided by a string, with diapering throughout and shields, carved with the arms of England, Leon and Castile, and Ponthieu, to the upper part. The middle section is made up of canopied niches, containing 3 figures of Queen Eleanor. Spikily pinnacled upper part. The cross which doubtless originally crowned the whole is missing. The monument is raised on 7 hexagonal stone steps, with some blue brick repair. To south is a low block, "built 1789" (on shield), topped by a single massive slab and containing 2 round-headed entrances (with studded round-headed doors) leading to the spring over which the cross is built. A metal plate records that "This monument is in the care of the Ministry of Public Building and Works". It is the best preserved of the 3 survivors (the others are at Hardingstone and Waltham) of 12 crosses erected by Edward I in memory of his wife, Eleanor of Castile, at the resting places of her funeral cortege during its journey from Lincoln to Westminster Abbey after her death in 1290. (At Geddington this was probably the royal hunting lodge which formerly existed north-east of the church). With its subtle geometry, rich decoration and elegant sculpture, this monument is an outstanding example of the court style of Edward I and represents a high point in English Decorated architecture. Scheduled ancient monument.

Record last edited

Sep 7 2023 12:46PM