Ancient Saxon Cross Unearthed in Leeds Offers Glimpse Into Early Christian England

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – A metal detectorist’s remarkable discovery in a local field has uncovered a gilded Christian cross pendant dating back over 1,200 years, the City of Leeds announced on May 12.

Believed to date from the 8th century, the intricately crafted pendant—likely a badge of office worn by a high-ranking church official—was made of solid silver and coated in gold leaf. Though one arm is broken and its central stone is missing, experts describe it as a “stunning example of early medieval metalwork.”

“This cross is an outward display of religious identity, likely worn by someone of great status in Saxon society,” said Kat Baxter, curator of archaeology at Leeds Museums and Galleries.

The find is especially significant as it dates to the era when Leeds was part of the Northumbrian kingdom, a region transitioning from paganism to Christianity. Saint Bede, the 8th-century monk, first mentioned Leeds during this period in his historical writings.

The pendant will be added to the Leeds City Museum’s collection later this year. Salma Arif, a city council member, praised the discovery as “a beautiful example of the history all around us.”

The city has seen several major archaeological discoveries in recent years, including a Roman aristocrat’s remains in 2023 and a 1,600-year-old lead coffin. Together, these finds continue to shed light on the rich and complex history of early medieval Yorkshire.

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