Why is there a sword carved into that stone? We are standing before the Memorial da Alpendurada, a unique monument steeped in history. The Memorial da Alpendurada is more than just a graveyard. It reflects a tradition unique to Portugal, that of building memorials for those who couldn’t be buried in hallowed ground. Look closer and you’ll see it. An intricately carved sword adorns the stone, marking this as the resting place of a knight. While his name is lost to time, his story is intertwined with that of the Memorial da Alpendurada. Imagine this knight, perhaps meeting his end in a duel or a tragic accident. Church law in the 13th century forbade burial in consecrated ground for those who died in such circumstances. The Memorial da Alpendurada, therefore, served as a solemn reminder of their lives. Today, the Memorial da Alpendurada stands as a testament to a bygone era. It serves as a poignant reminder of the customs and beliefs that shaped this land and the stories of those who rest here.
Igreja de Santa Cristina
Hidden within the serene landscape of Mesão Frio stands the Igreja de Santa Cristina. Its history stretches back to remote