Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Évora > Redondo > Redondo > Bairro António Festas
The Porta da Ravessa, also known as Porta do Sol (Sun Gate), is located in the village of Redondo, specifically in the urban area designated as Bairro António Festas. It stands as one of the historical accesses to the old town, integrating the ancient wall of the locality. Its location allows visitors to understand the defensive and urban structure that once characterized Redondo.
This gateway serves as a reference point for exploring the heart of the village, offering a glimpse into the original layout of the settlement and its relationship with the protective elements that surrounded it.
Dating back to the 14th century, the Porta da Ravessa is a remarkable example of the military architecture that characterized the Alentejo settlements. It is an imposing vestige of the wall that encircled Redondo, testifying to the defensive importance the village held in medieval times. Its solid structure and preservation allow for a close observation of the construction methods of the era.
As an integral part of the walled perimeter, the gate reveals the grandeur and functionality of these constructions, designed to protect its inhabitants and control access to the urban core.
Beyond its defensive function, the Porta da Ravessa played a vital role in the daily and economic life of Redondo. It was through this entrance that access was gained to the important trade fairs held there during the Middle Ages, making it a central point for meetings and exchanges. It was an essential node on the road axis connecting Évora to Badajoz, highlighting its relevance in the communication network of that period.
Even today, on the arch's stone, it is possible to observe the engravings of ancient official measures: the vara (yard) and the côvado (cubit). These marks served as a standard for merchants and vendors, ensuring transparency and fairness in the transactions that took place there, a direct testament to the administrative and commercial importance of the site.
The Porta da Ravessa or Porta do Sol invites reflection on the history and dynamics of Redondo. By passing through it, or simply observing it, one can imagine the bustle of medieval markets, the passage of travellers and goods, and the daily life of a village protected by its walls. It is a point where the past meets the present, offering an authentic perspective on Redondo's legacy.
This gateway is more than an ancient structure; it is a symbol of local identity, evoking memories of a time when village gates were their vital centres, guardians of their history and customs.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.6494395,-7.542334
Coordinates DMS: 38°38'58.0"N 07°32'32.4"W
Weather Redondo
On-duty Pharmacy Redondo
