Cruise

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Porto > Felgueiras > Pinheiro

Location

Located in the village of Pinheiro, in the municipality of Felgueiras, stands this Cross (Cruzeiro), also known as the Cross of Couto de Pombeiro or Passal. This monument is situated in a small square, marking an access point to an avenue of historical and religious significance in the region.

Originally, the cross was located in front of the local cemetery, having been transferred in 2007 to its current location, near the Fountain of Santa Bárbara, thus maintaining its inclusion in the devotional path.

Historical and Symbolic Importance

This cross is considered one of the oldest in the municipality of Felgueiras, with its construction likely dating back to the first half of the 17th century, according to records from 1632. Its original purpose was to mark the physical boundaries of the parish, serving as an important symbol of parochial jurisdiction.

The Passal Cross, as it is popularly referred to, would have marked the entrance to Couto de Pombeiro for centuries. Its presence, associated with elements such as the Lord's Chapels and the Fountain of Santa Bárbara, reinforces the sacred nature of the entire adjacent avenue.

Architectural Details

The structure of the cross consists of a base with five square-section steps. Upon this, a rectangular pedestal rises, notable for its projecting plinth and cornice.

The shaft of the cross is notably tall and slender, featuring chamfered vertices. At the top, there is a sphere preceding the cross. The current cross, made of shale, exhibits equal arms with vegetal motifs at the ends, reminiscent of the fleur-de-lis shape, a symbol associated with the Order of Saint Benedict. Although the material of the cross has changed over time (originally iron), its form was preserved during interventions, such as the one that occurred in 2007.

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