Terena Clock Tower

Category: Religious Architecture > Clock Tower

District: Évora > Alandroal > Terena > Tapada do Pateo

Location

The Clock Tower rises majestically in the locality of Terena, which is part of the municipality of Alandroal. This architectural element stands out for its central position on Rua Direita, prominent in the urban landscape and serving as a remarkable visual landmark in the village.

Its presence elevates above the surrounding houses, lending a unique character to its immediate environment and to Terena's own identity.

A Landmark in the History of Time

The origin of the current Clock Tower dates back to the second half of the 18th century. Its construction was a direct response to the need to replace the village's primitive clock, which was located in the keep of Terena Castle and which was damaged by the devastating earthquake of 1755.

Since its construction, this tower has played a crucial role in the daily life of Terena, housing the mechanical clock that, for centuries, set the pace and marked the hours for its inhabitants.

Architectural and Sonic Elements

The tower exhibits a distinct and imposing architecture, characterized by a hemispherical dome topped by pinnacles, which elegantly project into the sky. Its verticality ensures that it stands out among the village's constructions.

Inside, the tower houses two ancient bells, the larger of which is responsible for announcing the hours, filling the air with its characteristic sound. The clock face, which is oriented towards the west, is a piece of marble with Roman numerals, a testament to its longevity and the precision it offered the community for so long.

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