Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Viana do Castelo > Valença > Valença > Campo de Marte
The Paiol do Campo de Marte is located in the historic area of Valença, a place that once served as a vast military parade ground. It stands in isolation at the heart of the old fortification, precisely next to the gorge of one of the bastions of the "coroada" (crowned work), a strategic part of the walls. This position offers a perspective on the military engineering of the time, in an urban environment yet with a remarkable sense of spaciousness.
Built in the 18th century, around 1715, the Paiol do Campo de Marte represents a testament to Valença's former defensive capabilities. Designed as an explosion-proof military warehouse, this building was erected with impressive solidity, using robust granite ashlar masonry walls. Its primary function was to store gunpowder and ammunition, and it was constructed with particular attention to resisting attacks, as evidenced by its thick walls and unique design, which included specific ventilation methods for the safety of the stored material.
The architecture of the paiol reveals its military nature and the engineering of its time. It features a "T"-shaped plan, with two distinct rectangular bodies, one for storage and the other for reception, both covered by barrel vaults made of ashlar masonry. The exterior is notable for its high firebreak wall, also topped with ashlar masonry, where an arched portal opens. On this portal, it is possible to observe coats of arms that evoke important figures of the era, such as the arms of the Governor of Arms of Minho and the royal arms, elements that underscore the regal importance of its construction. Inside, a sepulchral plaque commemorates João Vitória Miron de Sabione, a lieutenant-general and engineer who marked local military history, deceased in 1810. An inscription on the inner lintel, "DOMUS MARTIS," reinforces its connection to the wartime context.
Over the centuries, the Paiol do Campo de Marte has adapted to new realities. From a past of military use, it has transformed into a cultural space, where one can learn more about local heritage. Interventions over time have respected the original structure, preserving its distinctive features, such as the granite ashlar quoins, friezes, and cornices, and the robust portals. This evolution allows the building's robustness and history to be appreciated by visitors to Valença, offering a glimpse into the engineering and defensive strategy of other times.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 42.0277601,-8.6461833
Coordinates DMS: 42°01'39.9"N 08°38'46.3"W
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