St. Breaca's Church, Breage

More Images of St. Breaca's Church, Breage

On the same day in mid-December 2018 that I visited nearby St. Germoc's Church, I revisited St. Breaca's church. First thing to notice, before entering the church, is the Cornish Wheel-Head Cross on the right near the porch. Although there was a Norman church here in the 12th century, what exists now is essentially a rebuilding of the 15th century but restored by Victorians. The interior consists of nave and two aisles with a south transept. The aisles both have typical Cornish wagon roofs. Some of the finest work in the church is a consequence of 19th century restoration by Rev. Ernest Geldart and E H Sedding: a full width rood screen, complete with rood, and a vast full width reredos. In one corner there is what is known as the Roman Stone, bearing an inscription to the usurper emperor Marcus Cassianus Posthumus. In the south aisle chapel a small 14th century stone sculpture represents the crucifixion. There is some good Victorian stained glass and some medieval fragments in the east window of the south chapel. In the Godolphin Chapel three helmets bear wooden replicas of dolphins, the family symbol. The altar is most unusual, of a pale stone with red rosettes and a table of (I think) serpentine. Finally, the big reason why you should visit St. Breaca's church: the amazing frescoes. As you enter, you are facing the largest and most impressive; through an archway you can see, around the north door, two large and surprisingly well preserved figures, on the left St. Christopher carrying the infant Jesus, on the right Christ of the Trades.

Breage Cornish Cross by Porch

Breage Frescoes on the North Wall

Breage Inscribed Stone