Hole Door or Cistern Door

Category: Civil Architecture > Gate

District: Évora > Reguengos de Monsaraz > Monsaraz > Zona do Castelo

Location

The Hole Gate or Cistern Gate is located in the Castle Zone, in the heart of the picturesque village of Monsaraz, which is part of the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz. Integrated into the village's defensive structure, this gate is one of the access points to its walled interior, revealing itself after traversing the historic streets that wind up to the highest area of the town.

Architecture and Materials

This gate is an example of military engineering from past times. Built with robustness, its construction uses granite, red clay mortar, and lime, traditional materials that provide durability and a characteristic aesthetic. Its opening is carved in the shape of a round arch, a common architectural solution in medieval fortifications, demonstrating concern for the structure's solidity.

A Gate with History

The Hole Gate or Cistern Gate is not just a passage; it is a testament to the defensive requirements of Monsaraz. As one of the four gates that allowed entry and exit from the fortified village, it reflects the concern for the community's security and defensive capability. Its presence recalls the times when the wall was the primary line of protection against threats, shaping the life and organization of the urban space within the walls.

The Origin of the Name

The name “Cistern Gate” originates from its proximity to an important medieval cistern, dating back to the 14th century. This cistern was fundamental for storing rainwater, a vital resource for the sustenance of the village and its inhabitants. Thus, the gate was directly linked to an essential daily infrastructure, giving it dual relevance: that of strategic access and that of a reference point connected to water supply.

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