Gate of Knots

Immortalized over the centuries in countless paintings and drawings, this gate provides access to the area known as the "Island," at the Ducal Palace.

It was commissioned in the early sixteenth century by the fourth Duke of Braganza, Dom Jaime. With clear Manueline inspiration, its architecture immediately catches the eye. On the sides, two granite columns stand out, appearing to be firmly tied to the doorjambs. Across the arch of the door, stone strips appear secured by braided cords, culminating in a large central knot—the unmistakable hallmark of the House of Braganza.

However, this knot carries a profound political meaning. According to Friar Manuel Calado, who wrote about the town in the seventeenth century, there used to be an inscription there with a fascinating play on words: "Depois de vós, nós". This translates to "After you, us"—a clever pun, since the Portuguese word "nós" means both "us" and "knots". It was a subtle yet bold message directed at the Crown: after the King, we, the Dukes, are the most important in Portugal, and your natural successors. A prophecy of power carved in stone that, decades later, would become a reality.