Category: Religious Architecture > Stone Cross
District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Vila Real > Lugar da Borralha
The Cruzeiro do Senhor dos Aflitos (Crucifix of Our Lord of the Afflicted) is located in Lugar da Borralha, an area of Vila Real distinguished by its more serene environment and predominantly rural characteristics. This location, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, offers an authentic perspective of the landscape and way of life in the Trás-os-Montes region.
Its position, integrated into the traditional housing and surrounding land, gives it a discreet but significant presence, making it a point of reference for those traversing the Borralha area. The surroundings are tranquil, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature and local heritage.
This crucifix is an element that reflects the profound popular devotion and religious traditions of the Transmontane communities. Although its exact construction date may not be precisely documented, it likely dates back to the 18th or 19th centuries, eras when the erection of crucifixes was a common practice as an expression of faith and as markers at key points in daily life.
Its dedication to the Senhor dos Aflitos (Lord of the Afflicted) gives it a particular symbolism, associated with seeking solace and hope in times of difficulty. Over the years, the crucifix would have functioned as a place for a brief stop and prayer for the inhabitants of Borralha, a meeting point between the sacred and the everyday.
Built of granite, a material abundant in the Vila Real region, the crucifix presents a robust and unadorned structure. It consists of a solid base, usually square, which supports a vertical shaft, culminating in a cross. Its simple lines and the solidity of the stone convey a sense of permanence and resistance to time.
The absence of complex ornamentation highlights the purity of form and the discreet monumentality of the ensemble. Observing closely, one can appreciate the texture of the stone and the mastery with which it was worked, elements that contribute to its harmony with the surrounding environment and its intrinsic beauty.
For those seeking a moment of tranquility and reflection, the Cruzeiro do Senhor dos Aflitos offers a suitable space. Far from the speed of daily life, this monument invites pause and contemplation of its history and meaning. It is a place where one can feel the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Vila Real region.
Its presence in the Borralha landscape provides an authentic connection with the past and local traditions. It is an invitation to slow down, absorb the atmosphere of the place, and appreciate the serenity that emanates from this point of faith and memory.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.31104399,-7.73308466
Coordinates DMS: 41°18'39.8"N 07°43'59.1"W
Weather Vila Real
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