Paço de Sousa Tower

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Porto > Penafiel > Paço de Sousa > Assento

Location

The Tower of Paço de Sousa rises in the locality of Paço de Sousa, in the municipality of Penafiel, in the area known as Assento. It is part of a historical-religious complex situated on a slight incline, surrounded by cultivated fields that once formed part of the old monastic enclosure. The site benefits from a serene setting, marked by the presence of the Gamuz stream, crossed by stone bridges, and by trees that contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, inviting contemplation of the heritage.

Historical Legacy

This quadrangular tower is a striking element of what was an influential Benedictine monastery, whose foundation dates back to the 10th century. The complex, to which the tower belongs, is recognized as a National Monument, testifying to the richness of the Romanesque architecture of the region. Over the centuries, the building underwent various transformations, but the tower preserves features that evoke its deep connection to the site's medieval origins, reflecting the constructive evolution and historical importance of this place.

Architectural Features

The Tower of Paço de Sousa features a robust granite ashlar structure, typical of durable construction. At its top, a parapet with decorative battlements, resting on carved corbels, stands out. The openings where bells were once housed are defined by elegant round arches, a characteristic element of Romanesque architecture. The tower has a door on the south face, with a round arch and a tympanum pierced by a cross, and on the west face, a balcony with a solid railing, supported by corbels with a lobed detail. These details invite close observation, revealing the art and mastery of medieval and later builders.

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