The Ten Commandments of the Holy Inquisition

Category: Civil Architecture > Memorial

District: Coimbra > Condeixa-a-Nova > Condeixa-a-Nova

Location

This memorial is located in the town of Condeixa-a-Nova, in the municipality of the same name, belonging to the district of Coimbra. Integrated into the parish of Condeixa-a-Velha and Condeixa-a-Nova, the site offers a point of reflection within the urban environment of the town. Its presence is a visible landmark that invites a pause and observation, fitting into the local landscape as a historical testimony.

Memory in Sculpture

"The Ten Commandments of the Holy Inquisition" is a singular monument, conceived to evoke one of the most complex and somber periods in Portuguese history. The ensemble is composed of ten sculptures, each one symbolically representing an instrument of torture that was allegedly used during the Holy Inquisition. These pieces are a stark visual reminder of the inhumane practices that marked that era.

Central Symbolism and Impact

At the center of this sculptural ensemble, one piece stands out particularly: the element that symbolizes the bonfires of the Inquisition. This focal point accentuates the memorial's drama, directly referencing the suffering and executions associated with this ecclesiastical tribunal. The work, as a whole, seeks to be an eloquent testimony to the dangers of fanaticism and intolerance.

A Space for Historical Reflection

This monument, more than a collection of sculptures, functions as a space for contemplation and remembrance. Its existence in Condeixa-a-Nova serves as a point of education and warning, reinforcing the importance of preserving historical memory and reflecting on the consequences of periods of persecution and oppression. It is an invitation to meditate on freedom and human dignity, allowing for an understanding of a crucial chapter in Portuguese and universal history.

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