Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Évora > Évora > Azarujinha
The Azaruja Pillory stands majestically in the heart of Azarujinha, a picturesque village belonging to the municipality of Évora, in the district of the same name. It is located in its Largo da Praça (Town Square), placing it at a central and visible point of community life.
Its privileged position allows visitors to observe the surrounding Alentejo tranquility, framed by the region's traditional architecture, characterized by white houses and serene streets. It is an unmissable landmark for anyone exploring the area, inviting contemplation of the local environment.
Dating from the late 15th or early 16th century, the Azaruja Pillory is a remarkable example of the Manueline period. These monuments were erected as symbols of municipal autonomy and seigniorial jurisdiction, marking the power to administer justice in a given locality, under the aegis of the monarchy or the local nobleman.
Its presence in Azaruja harks back to a time when public squares were stages for judicial decisions and the assertion of authority. Observing this pillory is, therefore, to journey through the history of local administration and how power was manifested in the medieval and Renaissance public sphere, symbolizing the very independence of the settlement.
This pillory features a structure characteristic of the Manueline style, a golden age of Portuguese architecture. It rests on an octagonal base, from which rises a column with a fluted shaft, meaning its body is worked with flutes or helical reliefs that give it a unique visual dynamism.
Its capital is richly decorated with motifs that allude to the symbolism of the Discoveries, such as armillary spheres and the Cross of the Order of Christ, emblematic elements of the era. Topping the ensemble is an unusual cage-like structure and a pinnacle, which give the monument a distinctive and elegant silhouette, making it stand out in the region's architectural landscape.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_Azaruja
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.70332611463182,-7.780158763947349
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'12.0"N 07°46'48.6"W