Porcupine Quill

Category: Nature > Protected Area

District: Bragança > Bragança > Pica Porco

Location

Pica Porco is a notable elevation, located in the village of Parada, within the municipality of Bragança. This geographical prominence stands out in the surrounding landscape, being easily visible from various points. Its silhouette is a constant presence on the horizon, visible from Paredes and also along the road connecting Paredes to Valverde and Mós. Its elevated position gives it a role as a natural landmark in the Trás-os-Montes region.

The Landmark at the Summit

At the highest point of Pica Porco, at an altitude of 823 meters, there is a geodesic marker. This ancient structure, built of masonry and now partially in ruins, marks a cartographically relevant point. Its presence at the summit, once fundamental for topographical measurements and map creation, testifies to the historical importance of these elevations as essential references for understanding the geographical territory.

The Origin of the Name

The name "Pica Porco" (Pig Peck/Prick) sparks curiosity due to its unusual sound. Local tradition suggests that this unique designation may originate from the name of a bird, the woodpecker, whose popular or dialectal form in certain regions may have given the elevation its name. This peculiar connection to the natural world adds a layer of fascination to the identity of the place, referring back to an ancient relationship between the community and the fauna inhabiting the area.

Panoramas and Natural Environment

The ascent to Pica Porco reveals a natural environment characteristic of an elevation. At its summit, the vegetation consists of species adapted to the local soil and climate. This point offers extensive panoramas of the surrounding landscape, providing an unobstructed view over the fields and mountains of Bragança. The breeze blowing at the top and the vast visual expanse invite a moment of genuine contact with the Trás-os-Montes nature and its tranquility.

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