Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Açores > Lagoa > Água de Pau
Situated in the picturesque locality of Água de Pau, within the municipality of Lagoa, this space is located on the island of São Miguel, Azores. The museum is part of the Paúl de Baixo area, a zone of the village that historically was characterized by the abundant presence of water sources, crucial elements for the daily lives of its people.
Its geographical setting offers a genuine perspective on Azorean community life, revealing a past intrinsically linked to the local landscape, where water played a vital role in the population's daily activities.
The Washerwomen's Museum stands as a testament to the profession that shaped the lives of countless Azorean women and families. This space is dedicated to the art and effort of the washerwomen, providing an understanding of the reality of such a fundamental yet demanding task, which took place both in public washhouses and along the region's watercourses.
Here, the history behind each piece of washed clothing, the simple tools used, and the daily routines of these women are explored. It is a tribute to their resilience, community work, and the social relevance of washerwomen who, with their hands in the water and often to the sound of singing, ensured the cleanliness of the clothing and textiles for the entire community.
This museological space, by its nature, allows for an understanding of the functionality of the places where washerwomen practiced their labor. Although not configured as a large complex, its architecture and organization evoke the simplicity and pragmatism of old washhouses or modest dwellings where the essential utensils for this profession were kept.
Inside, it is possible to observe a collection of artifacts that recreate the atmosphere of traditional washing: from rustic washboards and soaps, to buckets and tubs, as well as period clothing items. The exhibition may also include photographs or illustrations documenting the daily lives of washerwomen, where each object tells a part of the story, establishing a connection with the region's past.
The Washerwomen's Museum goes beyond the mere exhibition of objects; it functions as a guardian of the collective memory of Água de Pau and its intangible heritage. By preserving the history of the washerwomen, the museum ensures that their contribution to the social and economic life of the community remains alive, serving as a valuable resource for future generations.
It represents a link between different eras, allowing visitors to understand the living conditions and ingenuity of their ancestors. It is a tribute to the legacy of hard work, solidarity, and the deep connection to the land and its waters, essential elements in the construction of Azorean identity.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.7220907,-25.5079913
Coordinates DMS: 37°43'19.5"N 25°30'28.8"W
Weather Água de Pau
On-duty Pharmacy Água de Pau
