Category: Civil Architecture > Pillory
District: Viseu > Tondela > Tondela
The Tondela Pillory is located in the heart of the city, in Largo da República. This central point, situated in a wide area paved with granite cobblestones, offers a peaceful environment for visitors, flanked by some trees and garden benches. Its position in front of the Municipal Council building gives it particular prominence in the urban landscape.
This monument is a link to the history of Tondela and the ancient jurisdiction of Besteiros. Its original construction is conjectured to date back to the 16th century, following the granting of the charter to the municipality by D. Manuel I in 1515. Although the primitive pillory disappeared in the mid-19th century, the structure we admire today is the result of a careful reconstruction carried out between 1933 and 1939, which managed to incorporate original elements, such as the base and lower part of the shaft, recovered and valued.
Erected in granite stonework, the Tondela Pillory displays remarkable design. Its structure rests on an octagonal plinth, formed by three smooth, sharp-edged steps. From here, a base dado rises, supporting the shaft, which is also octagonal in section and slightly curved. The finial consists of a pyramidal piece with convex faces, upon which a sphere rests. At the highest point, a small wrought-iron finial, culminating in the Cross of Christ, adds a symbolic and decorative element to the work. This pillory is an example of the architecture that marked local autonomy and justice in times past.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.51839307,-8.08148418
Coordinates DMS: 40°31'6.2"N 08°04'53.3"W
Weather Tondela
On-duty Pharmacy Tondela
