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Ruthwell Cross

Ruthwell, Dumfries and Galloway
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Admire a major monument of early medieval Europe – a magnificent 5.2m tall carved stone cross

The Ruthwell Cross has been described as the most important sculptural survival of Anglo-Saxon Britain. It was carved in the early 700s, when this part of Scotland lay within the Anglian kingdom of Northumbria.

The cross was probably used as a preaching cross – a focus to help priests bring the Christian gospel to their flock.

Front view of Ruthwell Cross showing its entire height, including the cross head with a central circular motif and carved arms. The shaft is decorated with multiple panels depicting figures and symbolic designs. The cross is set within an iron railing inside a church with stained glass windows.
Detailed view of a section of Ruthwell Cross showing a haloed figure standing above another figure in a reclining position. The panel is framed by an inscription in Latin, with additional decorative carvings below. The stone surface is rough and aged.

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