Huguenot Cross

huguenot Croos is made of Maltese cross and a dove pendant. The article describes meaning and symbolism of the cross.





Huguenot cross is connected with the reformed church and its name derives from French word "la criox hugenote". The cross constitutes two elements Maltese cross and a pendant dove. Both elements have their own meaning. In addition to that, it contains other ornaments which are meant to have symbolic meaning. Huguenot Cross appeared in the VIIIth century among French Calvinists called Huguenots. It was the time when they were persecuted by Catholic monarchy. The cross was made three years after the Edict of Nantes which finished French Wars of Religion. The right of people of various religions (including Orthodox Catholics and Catholics) were equalized, only Paris was left without the influence of Huguenots. Maystre, a jeweler from Nimes, is believed to invent the Cross. It reflected the beliefs of a person who wore it and protected from repressions because it looked alike the cross used by Holy Ghost Fathers. These days, Huguenot Cross is a logo of the Reformed Church in France. The analysis made to all its elements reveals several symbolic meanings. Maltese Cross symbolizes faith in Jesus Christ, the round endings of its arms symbolize 8 rules a person persecuted for Christian faith, fleur-de-lys represent French Coat of Arms and martyrdom of Jesus Christ. The last element includes the dove pendant which symbolizes the Holy Spirit sending grace to people on earth. Some Huguenot crosses have ampule or tear which symbolize the martyrdom.