Nicholas Tolentino

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Oeiras > Figueirinha > Espargal

Location

The location dedicated to Nicolau Tolentino is situated in the Espargal area, in Figueirinha, within the municipality of Oeiras. This spot is located in a vast urban green area, designed for leisure and culture, extending over land that was once agricultural fields. Its geographical configuration allows for enjoyment of wide panoramas of the Tagus River estuary and the vast Atlantic, offering a scenic perspective of the riverside and coastal environment.

The view, particularly remarkable from higher points in the surroundings, invites contemplation and moments of serenity, framing the tribute to the poet in a setting of natural and urban beauty.

The Poet and His Expression

Nicolau Tolentino, born in Lisbon on September 10, 1740, and deceased in the same city on June 23, 1811, was a prominent figure in Portuguese poetry of the 18th and early 19th centuries. He distinguished himself primarily through his satirical vein, in which he addressed the customs of the time, the pretense of appearances, and the particularities of human behavior with keen and ironic humor.

His work is marked by a sharp observation of the "trifles and afflictions of the human creature," combining lightness with realistic criticism. Provocation, sometimes even moral in nature, is a central element in his writing, which remains relevant for how it portrays the society of his time. One of his verses that illustrates his sensitivity is: "Fiei-me nas promessas que afectavas / Nas lágrimas fingidas que vertias, / Nas ternas expressões que me fazias, / Nessas mãos que as minhas apertavas."

A Sculptural Tribute

In this space in Oeiras, Nicolau Tolentino is perpetuated through a remarkable sculptural representation, authored by Pedro de Campos Rosado. This work is part of a broader project that aims to celebrate the richness of Portuguese poetry and culture, honoring literary figures from various eras through sculptural art.

The sculpture dedicated to the satirical poet invites reflection on his legacy and how his critical view of society continues to resonate. The presence of this piece in the location is a lasting tribute to Nicolau Tolentino's contribution to national literature and his role as an attentive observer of the human condition.

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