Glastonbury Market Cross
Historic site in Somerset, England
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Glastonbury Market Cross is a market cross in Glastonbury, Somerset, England. Erected in 1846, it was designed by the English architect Benjamin Ferrey and has been a Grade II listed structure since 1950.[1]
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| Glastonbury Cross | |
|---|---|
The Market Cross | |
  Location within Somerset | |
| 51.1473°N 2.7179°W | |
| Location | Glastonbury, Somerset, England |
| History | |
| Built | 1856 |
| Site notes | |
| Architect | Benjamin Ferrey |
Listed Building – Grade II | |
Official name | Market Cross |
| Designated | 21 June 1950 |
| Reference no. | 1057910 |
History
Glastonbury's cross replaced an earlier structure of early 16th century origin, described as having been "of some antiquity", octagonal with clustered pillars, a central column and a roof.[2][3] It fell into a state of disrepair and was demolished around 1806.[4] Later in the 19th century, T. Porch, the proprietor of Glastonbury Abbey, proposed that a new market cross be erected on the same site.[5] It was erected in 1846 under the supervision of Ferrey and has most recently undergone restoration in 2005.[6]
Design
Glastonbury Cross is built of Bath stone in a Perpendicular Gothic style and has a height of 38 feet.[4] It has an octagonal base supporting a spirelet, which is embellished with ornamental work and tracery.[1]
Reporting on the cross in 1846, The Gentleman's Magazine described it as an "elegant structure" and a "great ornament to the town" with a "noble and imposing appearance". They added: "It is of a mixed style of architecture, conceived upon the outline of the famous conduit at Rouen, and from the elegant crosses of Geddington and Waltham".[4]
