Category: Religious Architecture > Stone Cross
District: Lisboa > Loures > Ponte de Frielas > Bairro Lameiras
Located in the town of Ponte de Frielas, in the municipality of Loures, the Frielas Cross stands in Bairro Lameiras, a point of particular interest in this area. Its presence marks an encounter with a piece of local history, standing out in the urban landscape.
The surroundings are those of an area that has witnessed development over the centuries, with this cross remaining a distinctive element in the urban fabric and inviting contemplation of its historical and cultural significance.
This remarkable monument, also known as the Manueline Cross of Cruz da Pedra, dates back to the period when the Manueline style flourished in Portugal, during the 15th and 16th centuries. This architectural style, intrinsically linked to the Age of Discoveries, reflects the grandeur and richness of a kingdom in maritime expansion.
The cross is thus a silent witness to an era of great cultural and economic dynamism. Its "Manueline" designation underlines its artistic importance and the specific period of its creation, making it a valuable example of the art of that era in Portuguese territory.
As a central element of a cross (cruzeiro), its structure is composed of a cross resting on a pillar or shaft, which in turn rises from a base. Although specific details may vary, Manueline crosses are often characterized by their rich and symbolic ornamentation, incorporating elements inspired by nature, heraldry, and Christian iconography.
For example, volutes, nautical ropes, or floral motifs that directly evoke the aesthetics of the Manueline style may be observed, celebrating both faith and the nation's maritime achievements. The Frielas Cross, in its essence, represents a point of faith and devotion, serving as a spiritual landmark in the public space and inviting reflection on the cultural and religious heritage of the region.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ficheiro:Cruzeiro_de_Frielas_-_Portugal_(7631838458).jpg
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.82044217066642,-9.146699862101979
Coordinates DMS: 38°49'13.6"N 09°08'48.1"W