Monument to Cante Alentejano - Homage to Joaquim Inácio Coelho Neves Cardoso

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Évora > Reguengos de Monsaraz > Monsaraz

Location:

This monument is located at the entrance to the picturesque village of Monsaraz, on an elevated area within the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz. Its location offers a comprehensive view of the Alentejo landscape, particularly over the waters of the vast Alqueva lake, which stretches to the horizon.

The surrounding area is spacious and invites a tranquil stop, offering a privileged perspective on the natural beauty that characterizes this region.

The Essence of Cante Alentejano:

The monument is a significant tribute to Cante Alentejano, a musical expression classified as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Dedicated to Joaquim Inácio Coelho Neves Cardoso, a prominent figure in the history and preservation of this tradition, it celebrates the collective voice that echoes across the Alentejo plains.

The sculptural work, conceived in sheet metal, represents a choir, capturing the essence of the union of voices that characterizes cante. Its simple and careful aesthetic reflects the authenticity and cultural depth that this musical genre embodies.

Landscape and Inspiration:

The place where the monument stands offers a setting of great visual impact. The immensity of the landscape, dominated by the presence of Alqueva, creates an environment conducive to reflection and appreciation of nature.

It is possible to feel how this same landscape, with its vast fields and open horizon, has served as a muse for Alentejo singers throughout centuries, shaping the melodies and lyrics that convey the soul of the region.

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