| Glastonbury Cross | |
| Coordinates: | 51.1473°N -2.7179°W |
| Location: | Glastonbury, Somerset, England |
| Built: | 1856 |
| Architect: | Benjamin Ferrey |
| Designation1: | Grade II listed building |
| Designation1 Offname: | Market Cross |
| Designation1 Date: | 21 June 1950 |
| Designation1 Number: | 1057910 |
Glastonbury Market Cross is a market cross in Glastonbury, Somerset, England. Erected in 1846, it was designed by the English architect Benjamin Ferrey and has been a Grade II listed structure since 1950.
Glastonbury's cross replaced an earlier structure of early 16th century origin, described as having been "of some antiquity", octagonal with clustered pillars, a central column and a roof.[1] It fell into a state of disrepair and was demolished around 1806.[2] Later in the 19th century, T. Porch, the proprietor of Glastonbury Abbey, proposed that a new market cross be erected on the same site.[3] It was erected in 1846 under the supervision of Ferrey and has most recently undergone restoration in 2005.[4]
Glastonbury Cross is built of Bath stone in a Perpendicular Gothic style and has a height of 38 feet.[2] It has an octagonal base supporting a spirelet, which is embellished with ornamental work and tracery.
Reporting on the cross in 1846, The Gentleman's Magazine described it as an "elegant structure" and a "great ornament to the town" with a "noble and imposing appearance". They added: "It is of a mixed style of architecture, conceived upon the outline of the famous conduit at Rouen, and from the elegant crosses of Geddington and Waltham".[2]