Floriated Cross

Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta, Georgia

The cross is one of the most common symbols found in cemeteries. It is a Christian symbol that comes in many different designs with separate meanings often with ancient origins. The cross in the photo is called a fleury or floriated cross. What distinguishes this cross are the three-petaled tips at the end of the arms of the cross representing the petals of the lily. The number three also has significance in Christianity and represents the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This type of cross was also used in the symbolism of heraldry to represent the virtues of wisdom, faith, and chivalry.
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1 Response to Floriated Cross

  1. Renet Bender says:

    I have always favored these crosses. I now like the symbolism of them. Thanks for the great post.

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