Pillory of Nisa

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Portalegre > Nisa > Nisa

Location

The Nisa Pillory is located in the heart of the town of Nisa, in the district of Portalegre. Situated in Praça do Município (Municipal Square), a central and landscaped area that is part of the Bairro da Cevadeira, this monument enjoys a prominent position. Its location facilitates access and invites a moment of peaceful observation in the square's open and inviting environment.

A Symbol of History and Justice

This marble stonework pillory is a testament to the former municipal autonomy and judicial power once exercised in the town. Although Nisa had a previous Manueline pillory, the structure seen today was erected in the mid-18th century, replacing its predecessor. It was at this site that local authority was symbolized, serving as a landmark of paramount importance for the community's administrative and social life. Currently, it maintains its function as a historical-cultural landmark, inviting reflection on past eras.

The Marble Architecture

The structure of the Nisa Pillory stands out for its construction in marble stonework, a material abundant and characteristic of the region. The monument rests on a quadrangular base with three steps. In the center, a tall, parallelepipedal plinth rises, adorned with florets on each of its faces. Above it, an octagonal shaft column rises to a simple capital, where a sculpted coat of arms is found. The ensemble is topped by a conical finial, which incorporates heraldic elements and is surmounted by an iron armillary sphere, from which a hand wielding a sword emerges, symbolizing justice and royal power.

An Enduring Presence

The history of the Nisa Pillory is marked by remarkable resilience over time. After being demolished in the 19th century, its stones were dispersed and repurposed for various public utilities in the town, such as benches or posts. However, the historical and symbolic value of the pillory led to its recovery. Its elements were carefully gathered, and the structure was re-erected in its current location, Praça do Município, during the 20th century. Its classification as a Property of Public Interest in 1933 reinforces its importance as part of Portuguese heritage and the collective memory of Nisa.

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