Pillory of Britiande

Category: Archaeology > Pillory

District: Viseu > Lamego > Britiande

Location

The Pillory of Britiande stands isolated and prominent in the center of the main square of Britiande, a village belonging to the municipality of Lamego. Its central position, on a flat surface, allows for a clear observation of all its angles, naturally integrating it into the village's urban landscape and offering a point of reference for visitors.

History and Significance

This 16th-century pillory is an architectural and symbolic testament to the autonomy and judicial power that the village of Britiande once possessed. Erected in the 16th century, its construction is attributed to D. Jorge de Lencastre, son of King D. João II. On its upper part, one can observe the crosses of the ancient Orders of Avis and Santiago, of which D. Jorge was a master, marking his influence and lordship over this territory. Functionally, the pillory represented the authority of local power, being the place where judicial sentences were executed and displayed.

Architectural Details

Constructed from granite ashlar, the pillory features a robust structure and notable characteristics. The base is composed of two octagonal steps, upon which the main body, also octagonal in section, rises. The capital, or top of the column, has a base crafted with a rope-like collar and a prominent section, ornamented with spherical and vegetal motifs, culminating in a molding. The crowning, cubic in form, is where the crosses of the Orders of Avis and Santiago are found, although one of the faces of the crowning and the capital show smooth surfaces due to ancient damage. Its composition, though with some recovered parts, maintains the originality of the style of the era.

A Cultural Landmark

Classified as a Property of Public Interest, the Pillory of Britiande has transcended its original function to become an important historical-cultural landmark. After being demolished at an uncertain date, it was restored in 1997 and re-inaugurated, reaffirming its place in the community's identity. Its presence in the village square invites contemplation and allows a journey through time, evoking the history and social dynamics of past centuries, and is today a point of interest that preserves the memory of the local past.

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