Eleanor Crosses: The Story of King Edward I's Lost Queen and her Architectural Legacy

The Eleanor Crosses is a series of stone crosses built by King Edward I of England to commemorate his wife, Queen Eleanor of Castile, who died in 1290. The crosses were built at the beginning and end of the queen's journey from Lincolnshire to Westminster for burial and served as focal points for prayers for her departed soul. Only three of the original twelve crosses survive, but each has its own story. The crosses reveal much about major changes in British history, religious conflict, civil war, and world war, as well as shifts in attitudes to the past.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 24 May 2018
Publisher: Signal Books Ltd

The Eleanor Crosses, a poignant journey of sorrow and remembrance, commence in November 1290 with the untimely passing of Queen Eleanor of Castile, the beloved consort of King Edward I of England. Tragedy strikes as the queen's body must be transported over a distance of more than 200 miles, from a Lincolnshire village to Westminster, where she will be laid to rest. In this solemn procession, the devastated king leads the way, walking beside the coffin of his beloved companion, with whom he had shared a 36-year marriage. The journey is further compounded by the changing seasons, extending the cortege's route and adding to the hardships faced by the grieving king. Determined to etch this tragic event into the annals of history, King Edward envisions an extraordinary building project: the construction of elaborate stone crosses at the journey's commencement and at each of the eleven nightly resting places, culminating in the Thames-side village of Charing, which is now the heart of London.

These crosses, painstakingly built by the finest craftsmen of their time, serve as focal points for prayers for the queen's departed soul. They are not only symbols of mourning but also remarkable works of art, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of the era. While only three of the original twelve crosses remain today, each one has its own unique story to tell. Collectively, these crosses provide a window into significant historical events, religious conflicts, civil wars, and world wars, as well as the shifting attitudes towards the past over seven centuries.

In her book, The Eleanor Crosses, Decca Warrington delves into the tale of survival and continuity spanning seven centuries, shedding light on the remarkable life and tragic demise of Queen Eleanor of Castile. This lesser-known queen, whose legacy is intertwined with these crosses, captured the heart of one of England's most powerful and charismatic kings. Through her narrative, Warrington offers a fresh perspective on the life and times of Eleanor of Castile, highlighting her enduring influence and the enduring power of her memory.

The Eleanor Crosses stand as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring connections between individuals and their historical legacies. They remind us of the profound impact of love, loss, and the passage of time on the course of nations and individuals. As we reflect on the stories woven within these crosses, we are compelled to honor the memory of Queen Eleanor of Castile and the countless others who have left their mark on the world through their acts of courage, compassion, and sacrifice.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 137 x 217 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909930650