Pillory of Belmonte

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Castelo Branco > Belmonte > Belmonte > Belmonte e Colmeal da Torre

Historical and Geographical Location

Located in the current parish of Belmonte and Colmeal da Torre, in the municipality of Belmonte, district of Castelo Branco, Portugal.

Praça da República and Medieval Fair

Located in Praça da República, in front of the former municipal library.

Destination for thousands of visitors annually, especially during the Medieval Fair of Belmonte, where the square is a central space.

Property of Public Interest

Received the classification of Property of Public Interest in 1933, recognizing its historical and cultural value.

Origin and Reconstruction

Dating back to the time of the granting of the second charter by D. Manuel I to the town, in 1510.

It was dismantled in 1885, and later reconstructed in 1986 using original pieces.

Structure with an octagonal base of three steps, also octagonal shaft with decorated angles, formed by five drums and topped by a drum of larger diameter.

Symbols and Inscriptions

One of the faces of the pillory displays a coat of arms of the municipality and an abbreviated inscription with the expression "Tudela Passus."

The inscription and symbols refer to a legend associated with the lord of Belmonte who preferred to sacrifice his son in a press rather than surrender the castle to the enemy.

Architecture and Design

Structure of unique design, representing historical and aesthetic characteristics of the time.

Decorative details on the bases and angles demonstrate the artistic care employed in the construction.

Cultural Heritage

The Pillory of Belmonte is an important part of the cultural heritage of the region.

It offers visitors a connection with local history and the traditions of Belmonte.

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

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