Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Guarda > Mêda > Ranhados
The Pillory of Ranhados, a landmark of historical and heritage significance, is harmoniously set in the quiet village of Ranhados. This village, part of the municipality of Mêda, is located in the district of Guarda, in the heart of the Beira Interior region. Its central position in the village gives it natural visibility, serving as a reference point and a silent witness to the community life that has developed there over the centuries.
Standing in the public space of Ranhados, the pillory blends into the typical landscape of this inland area of the country, characterised by a preserved rurality and a deep connection to its historical roots.
The presence of the Pillory of Ranhados symbolises the former judicial and administrative autonomy that the locality acquired. These structures were traditionally erected after a town was granted a charter, a document that conferred the right to exercise its own justice and have local government. Thus, the pillory was not just a monument, but a focal point of the jurisdiction and local power of the time.
In addition to its function as a symbol of authority, the pillory also served as a stage for the application of public punishments, where sentences were carried out and the force of the law was demonstrated. Its existence in Ranhados is a tangible link to a past where social order was visibly affirmed in the centre of the community.
The Pillory of Ranhados is a notable example of the public civil architecture that dotted Portuguese squares and plazas. Usually built of granite, an abundant material in the Beira Interior region, its structure consists of a robust base rising from the ground, supporting a shaft, or column, of variable shape.
The shaft, which stands out for its verticality, culminates in a capital, often worked with sculpted elements, and is topped by a pinnacle or finial. Although the specific details may vary from one pillory to another, its classic composition is an invitation to observe the architectural techniques and styles of past eras, reflecting the importance attributed to these monuments.
The Pillory of Ranhados transcends its original function to establish itself as a significant piece of heritage. This monument has been classified as a Property of Public Interest (IIP) since 1961, a recognition of its importance for safeguarding local memory and identity. Its preservation is fundamental to understanding the social and legal evolution of rural Portuguese communities, serving as a bridge between the present and the past.
The pillory offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with history and reflect on the traditions and way of life that shaped the region of Mêda and the district of Guarda. Its imposing presence and symbolism invite a moment of pause and an appreciation of the cultural legacy it represents.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_Ranhados
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.99355107331477,-7.329852277554066
Coordinates DMS: 40°59'36.8"N 07°19'47.5"W
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