La Cruz del Codolar

La Cruz del Codolar is a remarkable example of boundary crosses, elements that once served as important wayside markers with a deep Christian symbolism. Traditionally, these crosses were strategically placed at the entrances to villages or at main crossroads, guiding travellers and marking spiritual boundaries.

In the particular case of La Fresneda, La Cruz del Codolar stands to mark the exit from the village via the ancient road that connected the town with the neighbouring villages of La Portellada and Fuentespalda, a route steeped in history and the landscapes of the Matarraña region.

This magnificent Gothic cross features an octagonal capital, richly adorned with sculptures on several of its faces. In its elaborate reliefs, both heraldic coats of arms and scenes of great religious importance can be appreciated, offering a window into the past and the devotion of the era.

The upper body of the capital, known as the spire, is a work of art in itself, decorated with delicate Gothic windows framing a series of images of venerated apostles and saints. Among them, we can identify figures such as Saint Bartholomew, Saint Peter, Saint Paul, Saint Michael, Saint Anthony Abbot, Saint Lucy, Saint Agatha and Saint Apollonia, each with their own particular iconography.

Crowning this monument rises the cross itself, of Latin form, with galloon trim and fleur-de-lis, a design that enhances its elegance. On the reverse of the cross there is a tender representation of the Mother of God with the Child, while on the obverse, the image of Christ in agony moves the viewer with his head inclined to the right, crowned with thorns and with his hair parted over his brow, a profound symbol of faith.

As a complement to this historic site, a modern fountain has recently been built next to the cross. This fountain receives water piped directly from the municipal network, offering a refreshing resting point for both residents and visitors who travel this traditional road of La Fresneda.