Memory Arch

Category: Civil Architecture > Arch

District: Leiria > Porto de Mós > Arrimal > Arrimal e Mendiga

Location

Near the quiet town of Arrimal, set in the serene landscape of the Serra dos Candeeiros, the Arco da Memória (Arch of Memory) stands in the parish of Arrimal-Mendiga, in the municipality of Porto de Mós. Its strategic position offers a glimpse of the natural beauty that characterizes this region, inviting contemplation of the surrounding environment and the discovery of rural paths.

Origins and Purpose

This unique monument dates back to the time when the Cistercian monks established the boundaries of the vast lands donated to them by King Afonso Henriques. Although its initial construction was commissioned during that period, it is believed that the current structure was built between the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It served primarily as a boundary marker, delineating the historical borders between the municipalities of Porto de Mós and Alcobaça, a role it maintains to this day as a testament to an ancient territorial heritage.

Architectural Style and Dimensions

The Arco da Memória of Arrimal features a simple and unadorned design, notable for its robustness and the purity of its lines. With a height of approximately 4 meters, a width of 3.62 meters, and a depth of 1.03 meters, it stands out in the landscape with a discreet yet significant presence. Two inscriptions engraved on its stone tell part of its story: the first, in Latin, marks the creation of the arch, while the second records its reconstruction, carried out by King Miguel I in the year 1830.

Historical Value and Classification

Beyond its role as an ancient territorial marker, the Arco da Memória of Arrimal is recognized for its historical and cultural value. Its importance was formally recognized with its classification as a Property of Municipal Public Interest, a status granted by Order No. 23204/2009, published in the Diário da República (the official government gazette) on October 16, 2009. This classification underscores the official recognition of the monument as a significant heritage element, worthy of preservation and appreciation within the context of Portuguese heritage.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arco_da_Memória

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