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.
Memorial da Alpendurada Graveyard
Discover cities like never before.
Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.
More Places in Porto
Igreja de Anta
“A curious thing happened on June 13th,” I begin, gesturing towards Igreja de Anta. “Not one, not two, but several
António Silva Cardoso Plaque
A plaque. Simple steel. Yet it speaks volumes. This is the António Silva Cardoso plaque. It honors a man. A
Capela Cristo Crucificado
Gazing at the Capela Cristo Crucificado, one can almost hear the echoes of its past. The Capela Cristo Crucificado isn’t
Apeadeiro de Paredes
Imagine a flurry of activity around you. This is Apeadeiro de Paredes. It’s more than just a stop on the
Cruzeiro Paroquial
Beneath the gaze of Porto’s sky, stands the Cruzeiro do Senhor do Padrão. This isn’t just a cross. It’s a
Ponte Joanina
Gazing upon Ponte Joanina, can you sense the echoes of travelers long past? This 18th-century bridge, spanning the Carvalhosa River,