Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Évora > Borba > Borba > Borba (Matriz)
The Pillory of Borba stands majestically in the heart of the town, positioned in one of its most historic squares, once the epicentre of civic and social life. Its central location invites visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil and historically rich atmosphere of Borba, offering a perspective on the urban fabric that developed around this symbol of power and justice. It is an unmistakable landmark, easily identifiable within the urban landscape of the Alentejo town.
This stone monument is an eloquent testament to the history of Borba, marking the site where, in times past, municipal authority was exercised and royal laws and decrees were proclaimed. Dating from the early 16th century, during the Manueline period, around 1512, the Pillory of Borba symbolises the autonomy and jurisdictional power the town acquired with the granting of its charter, reflecting its importance in the regional context. Every line and indentation in its structure evokes a past where justice was publicly administered, making it a tangible link to the town's civic heritage and a reminder of its former prerogatives.
The Pillory of Borba features a robust and significant architectural design, characteristic of these civic structures. It rises from a solid platform or base, from which a cylindrical and faceted shaft emerges, culminating in a capital. This, in turn, supports a distinctive finial, often adorned with symbolic or heraldic elements alluding to royalty or the town itself. Its stone construction, with the characteristic strength and beauty of the region's materials, gives it a remarkable grandeur and a durability that has allowed its preservation over the centuries. It is important to note that its current form is the result of a re-erection and reintegration of the original elements, which took place in 1961. It is notable for its solidity and the harmony of its proportions, a reflection of the care and symbolism associated with these structures.
To contemplate the Pillory of Borba is to embark on a journey into the administrative and social past of the town. More than a simple architectural piece, this monument narrates the history of local governance and the evolution of Borba's society. It is a landmark that reinforces the community's identity and civic pride, inviting reflection on the transformations of time and the importance of historical memory in daily life. Its enduring presence is a reminder of the cultural continuity and rich legacy that Borba preserves.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_Borba
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.8050863580968,-7.454010280549307
Coordinates DMS: 38°48'18.3"N 07°27'14.4"W
Weather Borba
On-duty Pharmacy Borba
