The anta da Cerqueira (dolmen of the Cerqueira) or anta da Pedra Moura, located at Arestal mountain, is an excellent example of megalithic times in this region (dolmen of corridor), dating back to approximately 5000 years ago. This name comes from the access corridor to funerary chamber composed of large upright stones placed vertically or with a slight inclination. The funerary chamber is the place for the deceased, and is composed of 7 to 9 upright stones, highlighting the headstone by being the only stone placed absolutely vertically, which supports the weight of the remaining monoliths. This polygonal structure is completed with a capstone or hat and reinforced with stones and earth around (mound or tumulus). The enormous effort that was made through the construction of this tapir is justified by people’s belief in life beyond death.
The majority of the necropolis and megalithic monuments location is in higher places, in the highlands or on the slopes, where nature is dominant. In the immediate vicinity of the dolmen of Cerqueira grows a vigorous pine forest, with characteristic species such as the european robin – always curious in searching for food, and the kerry lily with its white flowers. In the valleys of the Arestal mountain there is the obligatory presence of the iberian emerald lizard, the belle demoiselle, the iberian frog and the common holly that finds here the ideal conditions to develop.
Side road shrines (alminhas) are a constant in this territory, reflecting the great religious character of its people. Sometimes were built at the top of the mountain or in the middle of the forest, marking the paths made by devotees heading to pilgrimage sites. Is this case, there are at least ten shrines passing through the village of Cerqueira towards the top of the Arestal mountain, along the ancient pilgrimage path. This particular side road shrine presents a center niche in a wooden panel where is represented a crucified Christ over a blue background, flanked by souls in purgatory, and a rainbow in the lower part of the painting.
