Pillory of Frechas

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Bragança > Mirandela > Frechas > Centro

Location

- The Pillory of Frechas is located in the parish of Frechas, in the municipality of Mirandela, in the Trás-os-Montes region of Portugal.

History

- This monument represents the old municipal power and has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1933.

Characteristics

- It is built in coarsely worked granite and follows the Manueline style, characteristic of the time.

- The Pillory consists of an octagonal column, supported on an octagonal base, with various moldings and decorative buttons.

- At the top of the column, there is an octagonal capital, highlighting four corbels (ornamental supports).

- On the north face of the capital, there are two figures with beards and a crown or diadem. On the south face, there is a human figure in a position of supplication.

- The western face displays the national coat of arms with the quinas adorned with only five castles.

- On the eastern face, there are the arms of the Sampaios family, who were once lords of Frechas.

- The Pillory is topped by a cylinder with four framed bands and various ornamental motifs, resembling a crown or diadem.

- The base of the column is supported by five quadrangular steps.

Tourist Importance

- The Pillory of Frechas is an important historical landmark in the Trás-os-Montes region, dating back to the period of the Manueline style in Portugal.

- Its peculiar architecture and the presence of heraldic symbols represent an opportunity for tourists to appreciate the art and culture of the time.

- Visiting the Pillory provides a unique experience of immersion in local history, enabling a deeper understanding of the antiquity of municipal power in Portugal.

Access

- The Pillory of Frechas can be easily reached by different means of transport, and the surrounding area is accessible on foot, providing a pleasant walk around the locality.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_Frechas

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