What stories do these stones conceal? This is the Pelourinho de Torre also known as Pelourinho de Porto Carreiro. It stands as a silent witness to centuries of Portuguese history.
Let’s delve into the story of this significant monument. Pelourinhos are common sights in Portuguese towns. They are often found in the main square or near important buildings. Think of the town hall or a significant church.
The Pelourinho de Torre / Pelourinho de Porto Carreiro is more than just a stone column. It is a symbol of justice and power. These structures, including this one, can be compared to stocks used in other European countries.
Imagine wrongdoers tied to the Pelourinho. They were exposed to public shame. In harsher times, they were whipped or even maimed. Some pillories still have metal rings. These rings once bound prisoners.
This specific Pelourinho dates back to the Modern Age. Notice the square platform. It has three steps. The base is a monolithic square with a beveled upper edge. It features a central recess for the column.
The shaft is circular with entasis and a collar. Look at the table. It’s shaped like an inverted pyramid trunk. Four small prismatic columns stand at the corners. A larger central column rises above. It is topped with a metal cross and a weather vane.
The monolithic table has a circular base. It forms a collar around the shaft. Each of the four sides bears a Portuguese inscription. The capital letters are spread over two lines. Sadly the partial destruction of the top line obscures full reading of the text.
Did you spot the metal ring? It’s spiked into the shaft. This detail offers a glimpse into the past.
While executions were not usually performed here, the Pelourinho de Torre / Pelourinho de Porto Carreiro served as a stark reminder of the law. It projected political and administrative power. Its presence dominated the landscape.
The Pelourinho de Torre / Pelourinho de Porto Carreiro stands in Marco de Canaveses. This pillory represents a fascinating aspect of Portuguese culture. Its stones whisper tales of justice. They echo with the weight of history.
So take a moment to appreciate this monument. The Pelourinho de Torre / Pelourinho de Porto Carreiro is a powerful symbol. It embodies Portugal’s rich and complex past. It connects us to the stories etched in stone.