Mordkreuz der Mersche von Tilbeck, Historic conciliation cross in Havixbeck, Germany.
The Mordkreuz der Mersche von Tilbeck is a sandstone monument standing beside the L 843 road between Tilbeck and Schapdetten, measuring about 83 centimeters tall. It rests on a two-tiered base and features carved inscriptions on its surface that commemorate a historical event.
The cross was erected following a murder in 1164 and preserves the memory of this crime through carved inscriptions. In the 18th century, the monument underwent restoration and repairs, which helped preserve it through the centuries.
The cross serves as a local landmark where the story of a historical crime has been passed down through generations by people walking past it. It shows how a tragic event became woven into the memory of the region and continues to spark conversations.
The monument sits beside a walking path near the Baumberge and is clearly visible from the road. Visitors should know that the location is best reached on foot and the surrounding landscape is flat and easy to walk through.
The carved inscription tells of a misunderstanding where soldiers mistook a bag of nails for gold and were subsequently executed. This unusual twist makes the cross's story particularly memorable for those who take time to read the details.
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