Figueiró dos Vinhos Chain Tower

Category: Military Architecture > Tower

District: Leiria > Figueiró dos Vinhos > Figueiró dos Vinhos > Bairro do Areal

Location

The Figueiró dos Vinhos Jail Tower stands in the heart of the village's historic center, integrated into the housing of the Areal Neighborhood. Its presence is noteworthy, standing out among the surrounding buildings and offering a visual landmark in Figueiró dos Vinhos.

Historical Memories

This tower, dating back to 1506, is an important testament to the history of Figueiró dos Vinhos. It was built on the initiative of the old men of the council, and its original function was that of a jail, serving as a place of detention and local justice administration. The existence of a plaque above the door, with inscriptions in Gothic characters, adds a touch of authenticity and depth to its historical narrative.

Architecture and Presence

Of a quadrangular plan, the tower stands out for its robustness and the stone masonry that composes it, reinforced by granite stonework at its corners. Its top is crowned by chamfered merlons, giving it a characteristic silhouette. The main entrance, an pointed arch, and the remains of older, larger windows, which now coexist with slits on the top floor, illustrate the evolution of its structure over time.

A Symbol of the Village

Over the centuries, the Jail Tower has transformed from a building with prison functions into a cultural and recreational landmark in the village. Although the attached jail was demolished and the clock that once adorned it has disappeared, the tower has undergone careful restoration interventions. Today, it remains a lasting symbol of Figueiró dos Vinhos' collective memory, inviting reflection on its rich past.

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