High Cross, Truro facts for kids
High Cross is a special open space in Truro, Cornwall, England. It's a beautiful area with old-fashioned stone paving, right in front of the amazing Truro Cathedral. You can find it where three streets meet: Pydar Street, King Street, and St Mary's Street.
This plaza is a lively spot, especially in summer when it's decorated with lots of colorful flowers in hanging baskets. During the festive season, Truro's big Christmas tree stands proudly here, making the area feel very cheerful.
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High Cross: A Special Spot in Truro
High Cross is more than just a meeting point; it's a place with history and charm. It's a popular spot for people to gather, relax, and enjoy the views of the cathedral. The unique stone paving, called cobbles, adds to its old-world feel.
The Old Assembly Rooms
One important building at High Cross is the Assembly Rooms. This building was built in 1789 and has a classic Georgian style. For a long time, it was a Warrens Bakery store, but it closed in March 2020.
Back in the day, the Assembly Rooms were the center of Truro's high society. It had grand halls where people would gather for parties and events. It also had a theater! Look closely above the first-floor windows, and you'll see two stone faces, called busts. One is of a famous actor named David Garrick, and the other is of the legendary writer William Shakespeare.
The Cobbles and a Royal Visit
The cobbles at High Cross have their own story. When Queen Elizabeth II visited Truro in the 1970s, the cobbles were covered with concrete to make it easier for her visit. But don't worry, after her visit, the beautiful cobbles were carefully put back in place, just as they are today.
A large car park nearby is also named "High Cross." This shows how important and well-known this area is in Truro.
The Ancient Celtic Cross
At the edge of High Cross, near Pydar Street, stands a very old Celtic cross. This cross is so important that it's listed as a Grade II-listed building, meaning it's protected for its historical value.
This special cross was found during a building project in Truro. People knew about a cross in Truro from a document written way back in 1290! In 1958, during some digging in St Nicholas Street, the top part of a stone cross was discovered. It was first placed near the Royal Cornwall Museum.
Later, in 1981, it was set up outside the Marks and Spencer store. To make it complete, a piece of granite from Hantergantick was added to it. In 1988, it was moved to High Cross, and it was officially dedicated in 1992. It's thought that the original cross at High Cross was a different style, and this Celtic cross might have been a simple cross found along a path.
In February 2019, the cross was accidentally broken into four pieces when a car crashed into it. But skilled craftspeople carefully restored it. In December 2019, it was proudly placed back at High Cross, looking as good as new!
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The Assembly Rooms building
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The ancient Celtic cross opposite the Cathedral
