Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Bragança > Vinhais > Vinhais
The Pillory of Vinhais stands within the walled enclosure of the old Vinhais Castle, in the heart of the eponymous village, Bragança district. It is located in a residential area with one or two-story vernacular houses, which give the space a tranquil atmosphere and a strong local identity.
Situated on an elevated point of the urban fabric, it offers a discreet perspective over the green slopes surrounding the village. Its proximity to the walls and pedestrian paths ensures easy appreciation of the monument and its historical context.
Dating from the reign of D. Manuel I, the pillory testifies to the expansion of the Manueline style in northeastern Trás-os-Montes. Its importance has been recognized since October 11, 1933, when it was classified as a Property of Public Interest, a document that protects and values it as a symbol of royal and municipal power.
Throughout the centuries, it served as a local landmark of justice, symbolizing Vinhais' autonomy as a municipality. Its location next to the castle reinforces the connection between the seigneurial authorities and the village.
Built of granite, it rests on a hexagonal plinth elevated by five steps, whose prismatic base supports the smooth shaft, devoid of a capital. At the top, a profusely carved block stands out, ornamented with motifs characteristic of the Manueline period.
Among the reliefs appear the national shield, two hands, two feet, and two maces, all framed by a chain symbolizing authority. Four arms culminate in serpent heads with rings in their mouths, flanked by florets, supporting a truncated conical base where the armillary sphere was carved, originally surmounted by the Cross of Christ.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.834947763015705,-6.9998185662593135
Coordinates DMS: 41°50'5.8"N 06°59'59.3"W
Weather Vinhais
On-duty Pharmacy Vinhais
