Imagine a time long ago in Unterschirl. The Zaglau-Wegkreuz stands as a testament to faith and community. This is the Zaglau-Wegkreuz.
The original Zaglau-Wegkreuz stood near the Zaglauer farmhouse. It marked this place for many years.
In 1977, the old cross was removed because of field drainage. Imagine the landscape changing. A year later, in 1978, a new cross was erected here. It was placed in its current location.
Michael’s grandpa built the new cross. He built it himself because the old one was decaying. This personal touch made the Zaglau-Wegkreuz special.
A craftsman from South Tyrol replaced the old metal figure of Christ with a wooden one. To protect the Christ figure from the weather, a roof of larch shingles was added. This ensured the Zaglau-Wegkreuz would endure.
Flurkreuze such as the Zaglau-Wegkreuz are common in this region. They are crosses found by roads, fields, or in the woods. Often, they depict Christ on the cross. They serve as symbols of Christian faith.
These crosses mark routes for wanderers and pilgrims. They remind people of old pilgrimage paths. Sometimes, they stand where accidents or crimes occurred. The Zaglau-Wegkreuz is not necessarily tied to such events.
Many stories are linked to these crosses. The exact age and truth of these stories are often unknown. The oldest stone crosses date back to the 13th to 16th centuries.
During the Counter-Reformation, the Catholic Church used these symbols to strengthen its presence. Way crosses and Bildstöcke became more common. The Zaglau-Wegkreuz is part of this tradition.
Wooden crosses were common in the Alpine region. When they became dilapidated, they were either restored or replaced. Michael’s grandpa built the Zaglau-Wegkreuz as a replacement.
Many crosses have a roof or side panels. These can be decorated. The roof on the Zaglau-Wegkreuz protects the figure of Christ from the elements.
Flurkreuze invite people to pray and reflect. They are often part of local religious customs. They serve as stations during processions. The Zaglau-Wegkreuz stands as a place for contemplation.
Today, the Zaglau-Wegkreuz represents faith. It represents community. It represents resilience. It stands as a reminder of history. It is also a landmark in Unterschirl.