Bedspreads from Castelo Branco

‘The bedspreads from Castelo Branco, of oriental inspiration, have been known at least since the middle of the 16th century.
Similar to the bedspreads from Toledo and Guadalupe, these have for centuries been a key piece in any bride’s trousseau, either plebeian or noble.
These bedspreads are made of linen and embroidered in silk thread, and their decorative elements carry a unique symbolism. In this way, the pitcher represents the hearth and the tree of life; the newlywed are represented by a couple of birds together or by the drawing of a symbolic man and woman; the chain-stitch stands for the unbreakable chain of matrimony; carnations represent the Man and roses the Woman; lilies stand for Virtue and hearts for Love; tendrils represent Friendship, ivy deep affection; jasmine means the virtue of chastity; pomegranates and pines are the solidarity of the family; cockerels stand for the blessed offspring, and lizards are the amulet for a much desired happiness.
These bedspreads are made and exhibited at the Museum Tavares Proença Júnior and at Loja da Vila, in Rua da Misericórdia, in Castelo Branco.’

Street paving

The city’s pavements still exhibit original paving-works, in harmony with the century-old Portuguese tradition. The paviours of Castelo Branco working for the city council have adapted their skills in working the stone (basalt and limestone) to the motifs of the famous bedspreads. The result is stone embroidery – art under our very feet.