Viriato Sundial

Category: Civil Architecture > Monument

District: Viseu > Viseu > Viseu > Cava de Viriato

Location:

The Viriato Sundial is located in Viseu, in the spacious and emblematic Cava de Viriato. This vast green area, which stands out for its remarkable octagonal shape, is a landmark in the city, inviting for tranquil strolls and moments of outdoor leisure. Its location allows for a smooth connection with the urban environment of Viseu, being situated in a place of easy access and visibility.

The Measurement of Time and Its Structure:

This sculptural piece, inaugurated in 2017, is a remarkable example of how art can serve science. Entirely conceived in metal, it functions as a sundial, using the position of the shadow cast by the sun to indicate the hours of the day. Its large octagonal base, where the numbered hour lines (from 7 to 17) are marked, is a direct reference to the singular shape of the Cava de Viriato that hosts it.

In the center of the base, a silver-toned sphere rises, divided into horizontal segments, which serves as a support for the central element of the sundial. This gnomon is designed to resemble a sword, a detail that adds strong symbolism to the work.

Viriato's Legacy:

The symbolism of the sword directly refers to the figure of Viriato, the legendary Lusitanian chieftain. Next to the central sphere of the sundial, the profile representation of this warrior hero stands tall. The figure, although not voluminous, is striking: it sports a beard, a fixed gaze forward, and a defiant pose, with one leg advanced and weapons highlighted, faithful to the conventional image of the combatant.

Viriato appears dressed in a simple, short tunic, and the scabbard of his sword is visible at his waist, reinforcing the intrinsic connection between the monument and his figure. This sundial thus serves as a lasting tribute to one of the most prominent symbols in the history of Viseu and Lusitanian resistance. For further context, an explanatory panel is present next to the work, offering more details about its conception and meaning.

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