Old Pillory Valença

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Viana do Castelo > Valença > Valença > Fortaleza

Location

The Old Pillory of Valença is located inside the imposing Fortress, one of the city's most emblematic landmarks. It stands in a corner of the walled urban space, easily accessible while exploring the streets and squares of this historic town. Its position, integrated into the fabric of Valença, allows visitors to discover it naturally as they walk through the fortified area.

From Roman Road to Historic Landmark

This unique granite monolith, approximately two meters and fifteen centimeters high and fifty-four centimeters in diameter, has a history spanning nearly two millennia. Initially, in the 1st century AD, it was a Roman milestone. Its Latin inscription dedicated it to Emperor Claudius and indicated the distance of forty-two miles to Bracara Augusta (present-day Braga), being part of the ancient Roman Road connecting Bracara to Astorga. It is one of the few milestones dedicated to Claudius known in the region and the second in the district to be adapted for another purpose.

Adaptation as a Pillory

It was during the 17th century that this ancient Roman milestone gained a new function, being adapted to serve as the town's pillory. Originally found near the Minho River, it was transported to Valença's main square, reflecting the transformations and needs of the era. Although recognized as a pillory, it does not feature the typical finial of these structures, which makes it a piece of increased interest due to its dual identity and historical evolution.

Heritage of Exceptional Value

The importance of this monument is officially recognized through its classification. What began as a Roman milestone is now a National Monument since 1910 and a Property of Public Interest as a pillory since 1933. This dual classification underscores its archaeological and historical value, representing a fascinating link between the Roman presence in the Iberian Peninsula and the evolution of justice and municipal power in subsequent centuries.

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