Pillory of Fráguas

Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory

District: Viseu > Vila Nova de Paiva > Fráguas > Vila Nova de Paiva, Alhais e Fráguas

Location

The Pillory of Fráguas is situated in the tranquil locality of Fráguas, integrated into the union of parishes of Vila Nova de Paiva, Alhais and Fráguas, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Paiva. It stands in a central square of the village, marking its presence in the urban landscape with its characteristic serenity.

History and Symbolism

Dating back to the early 16th century, the Pillory of Fráguas is an important legacy of the autonomy this locality once enjoyed. These structures were erected after the granting of a royal charter (foral régio), a document that conferred rights and duties upon a settlement, and functioned as visible symbols of municipal authority and the capacity for administering justice. Its construction in Fráguas is directly linked to the Manueline charter granted in 1514, marking the importance of the then-council of Fráguas.

Architectural Features

The Pillory rests on a base of three quadrangular steps, the lowest of which is partially embedded in the pavement. Upon these steps rises an octagonal shaft, with its faces smooth. The upper part, or finial, is the most elaborate and distinctive. It begins with an inverted pyramid section, which serves as a transition to a cubic block. This block has extended corners, reminiscent of a castle's merlons, and at its centre rises a short cylindrical piece culminating in a flattened sphere. The entire ensemble reflects the Manueline aesthetic, with robust stone work.

The Enigmatic Sculptures

One of the most curious elements of the Pillory of Fráguas are the eight sculpted faces, or gargoyles (carrancas), present on the finial. They can be observed on both the faces of the cubic block and its angles. These sculptures, with their crude expression, add a touch of mystery and singularity to the monument. Although there are oral traditions that attribute specific meanings to them, namely to historical figures, these representations are predominantly decorative elements that embellish the piece, giving it a striking personality.

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