Granitic marker 14

Category: Civil Architecture > Marker

District: Vila Real > Peso da Régua > Lousada > Olival Basto

Location

Located in the picturesque locality of Lousada, specifically in the Olival Basto area, Granitic Landmark 14 is situated within the municipality of Peso da Régua, in the heart of the Vila Real district. This point is set in a typical Douro environment, characterized by winding terraced slopes covered with vineyards that descend to the Douro River. Its position offers visitors an authentic and tranquil perspective on the region's rural landscape, inviting contemplation of the serene environment and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

A Point in the Demarcation

This landmark, numbered 14, is a silent testament to a fundamental chapter in Portuguese wine history. Belonging to a set of similar landmarks scattered throughout the region, its existence is intrinsically linked to the demarcation of the Douro Demarcated Region. Established in the 18th century, this demarcation was a pioneering effort to regulate and protect the production of Port wines, ensuring their authenticity and quality. Granitic Landmark 14, by its nature and location, is thus a tangible link to the historical effort of organizing and valuing this exceptional territory.

The Stone and the Landscape

Of robust and simple construction, Granitic Landmark 14 is, as its name indicates, sculpted from granite, an abundant and resistant material that has allowed it to endure through the centuries. Its unassuming shape, sometimes covered with lichens or mosses that make it blend with the environment, reflects the pragmatic functionality for which it was created. This element of civil architecture is not an isolated piece, but rather an integral part of the cultural landscape of the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO classified heritage. Its presence complements the beauty of the terraces and valleys, recalling the human action that shaped and defined this unique territory.

Legacy and Significance

Despite its apparent simplicity, Granitic Landmark 14 encapsulates profound symbolism. It represents the vision and determination of generations who, over time, knew how to value and defend the uniqueness of the wines produced in this region. Visiting this landmark is, in a way, connecting with the very essence of the Douro, understanding how every stone, every vineyard, and every boundary contributes to the identity of one of the world's most prestigious terroirs. It is an invitation to reflect on the history, culture, and resilience of a community that built and preserved this wine legacy.

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