Pillory of Beja

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Beja > Beja > Beja > Salvador e Santa Maria da Feira

Location

The Pillory of Beja stands imposingly in Praça da República, one of the most emblematic and central squares of the Alentejo city. This flat and welcoming square is paved with traditional Portuguese cobblestones, lending an authentic charm to the environment. Surrounded by buildings that bear witness to the city's history and daily life, the pillory stands out as a visual and historical landmark for anyone strolling through Beja.

Symbol of Justice and Local Autonomy

Historically, pillories were landmarks of power and justice in Portuguese towns and cities, serving as stages where municipal authority was exercised. The Pillory of Beja is no exception, already referenced in the ancient "Customs of Beja," dating from the 13th century, as the place where justice was administered and transgressors were publicly exposed. This monument symbolizes Beja's autonomy and civic importance throughout the centuries. Today, it remains a striking presence, recalling a past where social and legal life unfolded around these pillars.

Manueline Architecture and Historical Memory

The architecture of the Pillory of Beja reflects the elegance of the Manueline style, characteristic of the early 16th century. Its structure, made of limestone ashlar, rests on three octagonal steps. The shaft, tronco-pyramidal and twisted in shape, is richly decorated with motifs including discs, palmettes, and rosettes, and is interspersed with a ring at mid-height. The capital, also twisted, is crowned by an iron finial displaying the emblematic armillary sphere, symbol of the Portuguese Discoveries, and the Cross of Christ.

Classified as a Property of Public Interest, the current pillory is a faithful reconstruction from 1938, which sought to respect the original 16th-century design, relying on authentic iconographic documents. Its history, marked by dismantling and reconstruction, including an accident in 2001, attests to the resilience of this monument. It is a testament to Beja's ability to preserve and value its legacy, offering visitors a visual and symbolic connection to its rich past.

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