Rock-Hewn Graves

Category: Archaeology > Rock-Cut Graves

District: Guarda > Trancoso > Trancoso > Trancoso (São Pedro e Santa Maria) e Souto Maior

Location

This funerary complex is located in the locality of Trancoso, slightly northwest of the town's old walled enclosure. The area, with a semi-urban character, is easily accessible and offers a distinct environment, marked by the presence of large granite outcrops that shape the surrounding landscape. The site is located near Rua Dr. Castro Lopes, offering a perspective on the proximity between historical heritage and the town's contemporary life.

Historical Heritage

The rock-cut tombs in Trancoso represent a remarkable testament to human presence in the region during the medieval period. Their probable organization coincides with the Reconquista period, suggesting an established community and the need for a dedicated burial space. This archaeological site, originally conceived for funerary purposes, today becomes a historical-cultural landmark, inviting reflection on the practices and beliefs of the peoples who inhabited here many centuries ago.

The Architecture of the Tombs

The site consists of a set of tombs carefully excavated into granite rock outcrops. They are distinguished by their anthropomorphic shape, designed to follow the contour of the human body, with a semicircular concavity marking the head area. The tombs are grouped in parallel alignments, mostly oriented from East to West, a common practice of the time. Various dimensions are observed, including burial beds for children, and a rare example of a trapezoidal sarcophagus lid still preserved on site, offering a more complete view of its original structure.

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