Galegos Pillory

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Vila Real > Vila Real > Galegos > Constantim e Vale de Nogueiras

Location

The Pillory of Galegos stands in the heart of the locality of the same name, integrated into the parish of Constantim e Vale de Nogueiras, in the municipality of Vila Real. The monument occupies a central position in a welcoming square, marking the entrance to the village and located next to the old building that once served as the Town Hall, now adapted into a primary school.

Its presence in the urban space offers a point of reference for those traversing the area, providing a tranquil environment for a brief stop and observation.

Historical Origins

This pillory, made entirely of granite masonry, bears witness to an important period in local history. Its construction is attributed to the early 16th century, a time when Galegos saw its autonomy strengthened.

In 1519, King Manuel I granted a new charter (foral) to the village of Galegos. The erection of the pillory followed this concession, serving as a visible symbol of the power and seigniorial jurisdiction that the locality acquired, marking its administrative and judicial importance in the region.

Architecture and Characteristics

The Pillory of Galegos stands out for its simplicity and rustic appearance. Its structure rests on a circular base composed of granite stones, with two steps that elevate the ensemble.

The main body of the monument is a monolithic piece, meaning that the shaft (the column), capital (the element crowning the column), and finial were carved from a single block of granite. The shaft features a quadrangular section, with rustic-finished faces. At the top, the cubic capital displays discreet 'X'-shaped carvings, a characteristic decorative detail. It is also possible to observe, in its lower part, vestiges of the old iron restraints, which recall its original function as a place for administering justice.

A Classified Landmark

Due to its historical and architectural relevance, the Pillory of Galegos was classified as a Property of Public Interest in November 1933. This official recognition underscores the importance of preserving this element of national heritage.

Currently, the pillory functions as a historical and cultural landmark, inviting visitors to Galegos to reflect on the village's past and its evolution over the centuries. It represents a link to the ancient social and administrative organization of the territory, a silent testimony that continues to punctuate the village landscape.

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