Cross of Saint James

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Coimbra > Góis > Góis > Cabreira

Location:

The Cross of Santiago is situated on the hillside of the Cabreira region, in the locality of Góis, notably integrated into the landscape. Given its size and strategic position, this symbol is easily visible from various points in the village, serving as a distinctive element on the surrounding horizon.

Roots and Significance:

This unique landmark dates back to the "Campo Stella" project, which was presented in 1999. Developed by local associations in partnership with the municipalities of Arganil, Góis, and Pampilhosa da Serra, the central objective was to integrate the region into the historic Camino de Santiago routes. The Cross of Santiago in Góis was created in a particular way: through the strategic planting of trees and shrubs on the mountain slopes.

Symbolically, the cross forms in the landscape as a representation of the "Sword" or "Cross of Santiago", echoing one of the project's three main symbols, the others being the "Shell" and the "Star" in other localities. Children from schools in the involved municipalities actively participated in the planting, giving this location a community bond. Although the broader objectives of the project were not fully realized, the Cross of Santiago remains a living memory and a testament to the intended connection between Góis and the pilgrimage routes.

A Visible Landmark in the Landscape:

The Cross of Santiago stands out as a peculiar landscape intervention. It is not a construction, but rather an organic design traced in nature itself. Over time, the trees and shrubs that compose it have grown, accentuating its shape and making it an unmistakable point of reference. For those observing the village of Góis from higher points or simply from its surroundings, the cross offers a unique perspective of the interaction between human work and the natural landscape, inviting a quiet reflection on its purpose and persistence.

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