The Maen Achwyfan Cross

Whitford, Flintshire, Wales
OS 116 SJ 129788

Map link for the Maen Achwyfan Cross

Nash - Williams 1950
Maen Achwyfan is a particularly fine early Christian slab-cross, fashioned from one large stone. It stands some 3.4m high, and has a small disk-head and tapering shaft. Probably still in its original position, it is mounted in a sunken quadrangular base-block, and is now fenced for protection from animals and machinery. It is ornamented all over with patterns carved in low to medium relief, mainly interlace designs; these are generally well preserved, although weathered in parts. The cross-head has a large central boss and splayed arms, surrounded by a pronounced ring. At the base of the eastern face, a small figure holding a staff or spear is framed by the loops of the design, while figures and stylized animals are included in the patterning on the sides.

The cross may commemorate an individual or an event. It has similarities to others found in Cumbria, Cheshire and elsewhere in north Wales, which belong to a Northumbrian tradition heavily influenced by Viking deign. The cross is one of the few hints to of the presence or Vikings in this area.

Additional photographs of The Maen Achwyfan Cross

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