Monument to the Forties

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Leiria > Porto de Mós > Mira de Aire

Location

The Monument to the Forties is serenely erected in the locality of Mira de Aire, a picturesque village within the municipality of Porto de Mós, in the district of Leiria. Situated in a public community space, this monument contributes to the identity and urban environment of the settlement, offering a discreet yet significant point of reference in the daily lives of its inhabitants and visitors.

Its location in Mira de Aire, known for its connection to the surrounding nature and tranquility, allows the monument to be appreciated within a setting that reflects the essence of Portuguese local communities, where memory and traditions are often marked by civic structures.

Memory and Tradition

This monument is a testament to the vibrancy of community traditions that persist in many localities in Portugal. Its name, "Monument to the Forties," suggests a strong connection to the passage of age and the celebration or evocation of a specific generation, usually associated with life transition rituals in Portuguese culture. It is common for groups of "forty-year-olds" (people celebrating their fortieth birthday) to organize events or leave a mark on their community, solidifying bonds and perpetuating the memory of their group.

In this sense, the monument assumes an important symbolic role, representing not just a physical landmark, but a meeting point for memories and a tribute to the generations that have shaped and continue to shape local life. It is a way to honor the contribution and unity of those who reach this stage of life, rooting itself in the social history of the locality.

Aspects and Significance

The "Monument to the Forties" presents itself as a permanent structure, designed to be durable and accessible to the public. Although its exact characteristics may vary, this type of monument is typically built with robust materials, such as stone or metal, and its design is generally sober, aiming for the perpetuation of an idea or a tribute.

Its presence in Mira de Aire serves as a tangible reminder of the importance of generational traditions and social cohesion. More than a mere physical work, the monument holds deep sentimental and cultural value for the local population, functioning as a reference point for collective identity and the remembrance of events and people that mark the community's history.

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