Search for information on statues in the historic Portuguese city of Guimaraes and the chances are you’ll be faced by an aggressive looking guy wielding a hefty sword.
This is Dom Afonso Henrique, the Guimaraes born warrior who wrestled his lands away from the Kingdom of León by winning the Battle of São Mamede in 1128 and by doing so planted the seeds for the birth of a nation.
It’s understandable that the first King of Portugal gets top billing in the search stakes. But there are other intriguing figures to be found around the alleys and plaza’s of the curious little city that was the birthplace of Portugal but which has since slipped quietly from the history books; even Google street view hasn’t made it to Guimaraes.
Despite Guimaraes enjoying the title of European Capital of Culture in 2012, finding information about some of its most endearing artistic quirks is as tasking as finding a restaurant that is open on New Year’s Day.
I don’t know a thing about these two figures (apart from the fact that one seems to be Pan) but there’s something hypnotic and appealing about them, especially the winsome waif.
They stand quietly, overlooked by the masses, in amongst the trees on Alameda de S. Dãmaso.
If you visit Guimaraes, go say hello. The little people of the world deserve to be acknowledged as well.
Jack is co-owner, writer and photographer for BuzzTrips and the Real Tenerife series of travel websites plus lots of other things. Follow Jack on Google+
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