Boavista Cemetery

Category: Religious Architecture > Marmoiral

District: Aveiro > Castelo de Paiva > Sobrado > Gração

Location

The Marmoiral da Boavista is located in Sobrado, a parish of Castelo de Paiva, in the Gração urbanization. It is positioned at an easily visible point, near the entrance to the historic Quinta da Boavista and a roundabout. This location provides a setting that, while situated within the town's urban area, maintains the characteristic tranquility of Sobrado. Its presence is a notable element for those passing through this area of the village.

A Unique Monument

This medieval funerary monument, also known as Marmoiral de Sobrado, stands out for its particular typology. Unlike most marmoirais of the era, which frequently include arches, the Marmoiral da Boavista features a structure without any arch. It is composed of two vertical granite pieces, which function as headstones, supporting two horizontally arranged stone slabs. The lower slab, in particular, serves as a sepulchral cover.

Engraved Details and Symbolism

The surfaces of the Marmoiral da Boavista reveal engraved details of remarkable interest. On the slab covering the tomb, it is possible to observe the representation of a long sword and a Greek cross inscribed within a circle. On the faces of the horizontal slabs, there are also other engraved swords, while the vertical headstones display crosses. These decorative elements contribute to the rich and sometimes enigmatic symbolism of the monument, inviting careful observation.

Echo of History and Legends

The history of the Marmoiral da Boavista dates back to the mid-13th century, although its exact dating remains a point of debate among scholars. This monument was classified as a National Monument in 1950. Its origin and purpose are the subject of various theories and legends. Some associate it with the funeral procession of D. Mafalda towards the Monastery of Arouca, or consider it the tomb of a Templar knight. Other interpretations suggest it may have served as a territorial landmark for a neighboring monastery. Regardless of its original function, the Marmoiral da Boavista perpetuates the memory of a distant past, shrouded in mystery and legend.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt