Pelourinho de Estremoz, pillory in Estremoz, Portugal
The Pelourinho de Estremoz is a pillar made from white marble featuring an octagonal base with three steps and decorative carved details. Originally topped with a cross and iron crown, these elements were removed during repairs in the 1900s, leaving the stone structure as it appears today.
The pillory was built in the early 1500s during King D. Manuel I's reign, featuring Manueline style elements typical of Portuguese architecture of that period. Moved to its current location in front of city hall in 1698, it became a permanent landmark in the town square.
The Pelourinho de Estremoz stands in Praça Luís de Camões and marks the historical place where the city community gathered for official events and public matters. This location symbolizes how local authority displayed its power and how daily life in the town revolved around such central gathering spaces.
The pillory stands in an open square with free access at any time, allowing you to walk up and view the carved details and stone work up close. Parking is readily available nearby, making it easy to stop and visit without concern.
Between 1867 and 1871, the pillory disappeared without trace and was hidden in a forgotten location. Two local artists, Saavedra Machado and Luís Chaves, carefully rebuilt it in 1916 and restored it to the square where visitors can see it today.
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