Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Santarém > Ferreira do Zêzere > Águas Belas > Quinta da Fonte Ferreira
The Pillory of Águas Belas is serenely situated in the locality of Águas Belas, which is part of the municipality of Ferreira do Zêzere, in the district of Santarém. More specifically, this historical monument is located in the vicinity of Quinta da Fonte Ferreira, a setting that provides an atmosphere of tranquility and invites contemplation. Its position in this scenario, often associated with a rural landscape, allows visitors to immerse themselves in a piece of Portuguese history, away from the urban bustle.
The Pillory of Águas Belas stands as a remarkable testament to history and ancient municipal autonomy. Historically, these monuments were visible symbols of seigniorial or royal power, marking the place where justice was administered and local orders and laws were proclaimed. They also served as a stage for public acts, notably the application of penalties, representing the authority and jurisdiction of a particular municipality or locality. Its presence in Águas Belas underscores the importance this locality held in the past, reflecting a period when it possessed its own governance prerogatives or was a central point in the administration of justice in the region.
At its core, the Pillory of Águas Belas is a robust stone column, characteristic of civil architecture that marked the jurisdiction of a territory. Although the specific details of each pillory vary, it generally consists of a base, a shaft (the column itself), and a finial at the top, which may include a capital or other decorative elements. This example, by its simplicity and solidity, reflects the intrinsic functionality and symbolism of these structures. The stone, a predominant material, gives it a durability that has allowed it to withstand the centuries, maintaining its form and presence through time and space.
Visiting the Pillory of Águas Belas is, therefore, an opportunity to step back in time and understand the social and administrative dynamics of yesteryear. This monument is not just a stone structure; it is a link to the past, a reminder of the forms of organization and power that shaped Portuguese communities. Its discreet, yet significant, location invites reflection on local history and the role these landmarks played in the daily lives of the population, making it a point of cultural and historical interest for those exploring the Ferreira do Zêzere region.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelourinho_de_%C3%81guas_Belas
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.702557355060065,-8.296077190816218
Coordinates DMS: 39°42'9.2"N 08°17'45.9"W
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