Pestkreuz

The Pestkreuz in Zeutschach stands in the Steiermark region of Austria. It is a rectangular brick niche image pedestal rather than a typical wayside cross. The structure is about three metres tall and sits roughly 100 metres before the village entrance. Its roof is covered with wooden shingles, giving it a sturdy appearance. The cross was likely built after 1716 as a Trinity cross. It has been protected as a historic monument for many years. The cross commemorates the last local outbreak of plague between 1714 and 1716. Though the disease reached nearby areas, Zeutschach remained untouched. In 1715 a special altar was set up before the medieval parish church and a dedicated plague chaplain was appointed. The Pestkreuz was erected as thanks for sparing the village from the epidemic. Its four niches hold painted wooden panels depicting scenes from Christ’s Passion. Inside the niches are four Passion paintings on wood. They show the crowning with thorns, the carrying of the cross, the crucifixion, and the removal from the cross. The images are arranged one in each niche of the pedestal. The cross stands beside the road leading into Zeutschach, a quiet reminder of past dangers. Visitors see the small but striking structure framed by the surrounding countryside.