Sandbach Crosses

The Sandbach Crosses are a celebrated pair of Anglo-Saxon crosses, likely dating from the early to mid-9th century. Their original location is unknown, but they were probably moved to their current site in the late Middle Ages. The crosses were thrown down, likely after the Reformation or during the Civil War, and their parts were dispersed. In 1816, efforts were made to recover the pieces, and the crosses were re-erected, set in stone sockets and placed side-by-side on a three-stepped stone base. The north cross, which is taller, has a mutilated head, while the south cross features a truncated shaft with a mutilated head from another cross. Both crosses are decorated on all faces with carved figures, animals, vine scrolls, and the north cross includes panels depicting biblical scenes.