The Penally cross is found in the churchyard at Penally, near Tenby and dates
from the late 10th century and is 6 feet high. It's lofty shaft and small head
is typical of Welch crosses. The head of the cross in the form of the wheel
cross developed in the Celtic world from the Chi-Rho monogram representing
Christ. The letter X (Chi) and P (Rho), the first two letters of Christ in
Greek, were one over the other. After centuries this symbol came to be enclosed
in a circle. The knotwork moving up the shaft symbolizing everlasting life
changes into a vine scroll. The vine in Celtic art represents the Tree of Life.
The Tree of Life, with its roots in the earth and its branches high in the air
symbolizes a connection between heaven and earth.
Size:
