Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Viseu > Tondela > São João do Monte
The Pillory of São João do Monte stands prominently in the heart of São João do Monte village, in the municipality of Tondela. It is located in a small square, giving it an isolated and central presence in the urban fabric. Its prominent position facilitates the observation and understanding of its role in the life of the ancient village.
This pillory is a testament to a past of relevance, symbolizing the autonomy and judicial power that São João do Monte once held. Its existence is intimately linked to the status of village and county seat that the locality acquired, namely after the granting of a new charter by D. Manuel I, in 1514. It is believed that the monument, as we see it today, was built in the 17th century, serving for centuries as a central point for the administration of justice. It remains a vestige of the time when São João do Monte was a decision-making center, before the extinction of its municipality in 1855.
Carved from robust granite ashlar, the Pillory of São João do Monte displays a structure characteristic of "pine cone" type pillories. The base is formed by a quadrangular platform with steps, some of which are partially visible due to the surrounding cobblestones. From this platform emerges a plinth, or pedestal, with simple moldings, which supports an octagonal shaft. The top of the pillory is a truncated pyramid-shaped 'pine cone', elegant in its simplicity, crowned by an iron finial that supports a metallic rooster-shaped weather vane. This architectural ensemble not only marks the local landscape but is also recognized as a Property of Public Interest, highlighting its patrimonial value.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.597995,-8.235164
Coordinates DMS: 40°35'52.8"N 08°14'6.6"W
Weather São João do Monte
On-duty Pharmacy São João do Monte
