Pillory of the Canal

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Évora > Estremoz > Glória > Casas

Location

The Canal Pillory is located in a calm rural area known as Casas, near the locality of Glória, in the municipality of Estremoz. Situated in a slightly elevated position in the Alentejo landscape, this historical landmark offers unobstructed views over the surrounding countryside, with the city of Estremoz visible in the distance.

A Historical Landmark

This pillory dates back to the 16th century, a time when the Canal area held distinct importance and autonomy. It serves as a silent testament to the past, symbolically marking the place where some form of jurisdiction or local authority was once exercised. Its presence is linked to the history of the ancient territory of Canal, which once held the status of a town and municipal seat in past centuries, before being integrated into the current administrative structure.

Its Design

The Canal Pillory features a relatively simple design, following the patterns of 16th-century architecture of the region. It consists of a single-step base from which rises a monolithic, cylindrical shaft, or main column, made of marble. This shaft is topped by a smooth sphere, also of marble, culminating in an iron cross at the very top. The use of marble, a material so characteristic of Estremoz and its surroundings, gives it a particular connection to the territory.

Preserved Heritage

Recognized for its historical and cultural value, the Canal Pillory has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1933. This classification underscores its relevance as a material vestige of a past era and a different territorial organization. Today, it remains a landmark in the rural landscape, inviting reflection on the history and transformations of this area throughout the centuries.

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