Manueline Window

Category: Civil Architecture > Window

District: Beja > Beja > Beja > Santiago Maior e São João Baptista

Location

In the city of Beja, in the heart of Alentejo, the Manueline Window is located in Praça da República, one of the central and historic points of the town. This square, situated in the area of Santiago Maior and São João Baptista, is a vibrant urban space where the window is integrated into the façade of a building that once belonged to noble families and today maintains its residential character. Its position allows it to be easily observed by passers-by, inviting a moment of contemplation in the typical Alentejo atmosphere.

A Testament to Manueline Style

This remarkable Manueline Window is a singular example of the architectural style that flourished in Portugal in the early 16th century, during the reign of D. Manuel I. That era was marked by maritime expansion and prosperity, aspects reflected in the exuberance and originality of this art. The window, dated circa 1500, is a piece of marble stonework that conveys the spirit of a golden period in Portuguese history, combining Gothic elements with maritime and religious influences and symbolism.

Sculpted Details and Symbolism

The beauty of the Manueline Window lies in its intricate stonework and the multiple details that compose it. It is a mullioned window, with two perfect archways that join a central colonette, topped by a truncated-conical capital decorated with stylized foliage. The outer frame is composed of a set of distinct elements: a twisted torus, vegetal motifs such as thistles and scrollwork, and a finish in diamond points. In addition to the vegetal ornamentation and nautical references, such as armillary spheres and ropes, that allude to the discoveries, the window features singular figures of Adam, with an apple, and Eve, with a serpent around her neck. These representations, of biblical origin, symbolize the human condition and the prevailing faith of the era, adding a layer of cultural and historical significance to its artistic beauty.

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