Dona Maria's Apple Filipino Cruise

Category: Religious Architecture > Stone Cross

District: Leiria > Alvaiázere > Maçãs de Dona Maria > Currais

Location

The Philippine Wayside Cross of Maçãs de Dona Maria is located in Currais, a locality within the parish of Maçãs de Dona Maria, in the municipality of Alvaiázere, district of Leiria. Its presence marks a point of interest in this area, becoming part of the local landscape and inviting visitors to discover the region's heritage.

Characteristics and Symbolism

This monument is a stone wayside cross, typically composed of a cross resting on a shaft or column, which in turn rises from a base or plinth. Although the specific details of the Philippine Wayside Cross of Maçãs de Dona Maria may vary, its presence signifies the community's deep connection to faith and tradition. The name Philippine is a distinctive detail that may suggest a dating or a style influenced by the period of the Philippine Dynasty (1580-1640), when Portugal was under the Spanish crown. This type of monument often served as a point of prayer and reflection, or as a marker for sites of religious and community significance.

Presence in Daily Life

Wayside crosses, such as the Philippine Wayside Cross, are intrinsic elements of the Portuguese cultural landscape. They function not only as symbols of faith and popular piety, but also as landmarks in the life of the community, witnessing the passage of time and the generations that have passed by. Their formal simplicity contrasts with the richness of their cultural and historical meaning, inviting careful observation and an understanding of the local heritage. They represent a visible link between the past and the present, harmoniously integrated into the surrounding environment.

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