Pillory of Lisbon

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Mártires

Location

The Pillory of Lisbon is located in Praça do Município (Town Hall Square), in the parish of Santa Maria Maior, in the heart of the Portuguese capital. This site occupies a central position in Lisbon's urban landscape, set in a square that has historically played a fundamental role in the city's civic life.

Its presence in this square gives it a setting of great historical significance, characterized by its proximity to emblematic buildings that bear witness to Lisbon's evolution over the centuries.

History and Significance

This monument is one of the most prominent symbols of municipal autonomy and justice in Lisbon's past. Classified as a National Monument since 1910, the pillory seen today is not the original, but a reconstruction. The structure was erected after the devastating 1755 Earthquake, which ravaged much of the city.

The project for its rebuilding was designed by Eugénio dos Santos e Carvalho, a central figure in the Pombaline reconstruction of Lisbon. The pillory thus represents not only the continuity of judicial and administrative power but also the city's resilience and capacity for renewal in the face of disaster.

Architectural Features

The Pillory of Lisbon features an architectural design that fits within the Pombaline Neoclassical style, typical of the post-earthquake reconstruction. Its base is octagonal, rising on five granite steps that give solidity and grandeur to the structure.

The central column, the pillory's distinctive element, is composed of three spiral shafts that intertwine harmoniously and rise to a height of about 10 meters. The structure is a combination of materials such as iron, marble, and worked stone, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era in integrating these elements. At the top of the column, a metallic armillary sphere stands out, crowning the monument and adding a symbolic and visually striking detail.

Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_Lisboa

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