St Gerrans

Its steeple, erected in the 17th century as a navigation mark at the request of local fishermen, is also a reference for walkers and drivers. The church probably takes its name from St Geraint, a Cornish chief of the 8th century, who was converted to Christianity.

The Romans introduced Christianity to Britain. When they left and the heathen English invaded, Christianity was confined to the western fringes; Ireland, Wales and Cornwall.

Wandering priests set up cells called oratories, where they landed, in sheltered coves and creeks with spring water at hand, as at St Just and St Anthony. They taught in the open air, on a mound and often beside a stone cross. We have a granite Celtic cross, dating from the 6th to the 10th century.

In time, some form of shelter became a necessity, and crude buildings of wood, cob and thatch were erected.

When the Normans arrived, they built fine stone buildings, cathedrals and monasteries, as at St Anthony which was dedicated in 1259.

Gerrans church was probably a chapel of this monastery. St Gerant, Blerans or Gerendus was recorded as a saintly Cornish king well known in the Celtic world from Wales to Brittany. There is every reason to believe a close connection with this parish that bears his name. Local legend has it that his body was rowed across from Dingerein (Gerrans Castle, known today as Curgurrel) in a silver boat with golden oars.

We have two excellent leaflets on the history of the church and its parish. There are detailed descriptions of the interior, including the 12th century font, and of the additions/alterations to the building made over the centuries. Wander round the pleasant, sloping burial ground with its wild flowers and fine views of the sea.