Category: Civil Architecture > Marker
District: Vila Real > Mesão Frio > Cimo do Douro > Bairro Pinheiro Manso
Granite Boundary Marker 9 is located in Cimo do Douro, a village in the municipality of Mesão Frio. It is situated in Bairro Pinheiro Manso, an area that offers a tranquil setting and views over the surrounding landscape. Its elevated position allows for a broad perspective of the Douro's topography, characteristic of this wine region.
This marker is an example of the "Pombaline Markers" or "Granite Markers" that were established in the 18th century. Its existence dates back to 1758, when the Marquis of Pombal, a central figure in Portuguese governance, ordered the demarcation of the Douro Demarcated Region. These granite markers were erected to physically mark the boundaries of what was the world's first demarcated and regulated wine region, thus protecting the quality and authenticity of Port Wine.
Granite Boundary Marker 9 is not just a stone, but an enduring symbol of the region's history and identity. It represents the pioneering vision that led to the creation of a wine production control system, fundamental to the international reputation of Port Wine. Observing this marker, one can feel the deep connection between the land, history, and the legacy of a tradition that continues to shape the local landscape and economy.
Made of granite, the predominant material in the region, the marker naturally blends into the landscape. Its simplicity and robustness reflect the nature of the work and the people who inhabited these lands throughout the centuries. It is an element that, although discreet, carries with it a rich narrative, inviting reflection on the importance of preserving the heritage and cultural landscape of the Douro.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 41.14809594,-7.88814603
Coordinates DMS: 41°08'53.1"N 07°53'17.3"W