São Pedro Lookout

Category: Civil Architecture > Watchtower

District: Portalegre > Campo Maior > Atalaia de Ouguela

Location

The Atalaia de São Pedro is located in the town of Atalaia de Ouguela, municipality of Campo Maior. It is strategically positioned on a high point, which provides it with a wide view over the surrounding area. This elevated location was fundamental for its original function.

Origin and Military Function

Originally, the Atalaia de São Pedro was erected as a watchtower, or 'atalaya'. Its main purpose was military: to be located on a high point to observe the landscape and detect the approach of possible invaders. From here, it was possible to alert other nearby fortifications, through signals, about suspicious movements. This type of construction was vital for border defense in past times.

A Possible New Function

Over time, with the change in military needs, the Atalaia de São Pedro may have acquired a new purpose. There are signs in the building that lead some researchers to consider the hypothesis that it was adapted to serve as a place of worship. There are even historical documents that seem to refer to a hermitage of São Pedro located in this area, suggesting that the old watchtower may have been transformed into a religious space after its original function ceased.

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