Communal tank

Category: Civil Architecture > Tank

District: Beja > Vidigueira > Selmes > Alcaria da Serra

Location

The communal tank is serenely integrated into the locality of Alcaria da Serra, which belongs to the parish of Selmes, in the municipality of Vidigueira, district of Beja. This point of interest is located in the heart of the Alentejo, a region characterized by its vast undulating plains, dotted with cork oaks, olive trees, and vineyards. Its location in Alcaria da Serra places it in a predominantly rural landscape, where the tranquility and simplicity of Alentejo life are still palpable.

The surroundings are marked by typical white houses and an atmosphere of calm, inviting observation of local life and appreciation of the surrounding country landscape, where the Alentejo sun draws long shadows throughout the day.

Function and Heritage

This communal tank is a testament to the importance of water management in rural Alentejo communities over time. Its construction was aimed at capturing and storing water, a vital resource in regions with long, dry summers like the Alentejo. It was not merely a structure for irrigation or watering livestock, but a fundamental support point for the subsistence and daily life of the inhabitants of Alcaria da Serra.

It represents an essential piece of local heritage, reflecting the ingenious solutions and resilience of communities that depended directly on natural resources for their sustenance. In many respects, it was the heart of the agricultural and social life of the locality, a true meeting point and sharing of essential resources.

Characteristics and Environment

From an architectural point of view, the communal tank stands out for its robustness and functionality. Its construction is typically of simple and unpretentious lines, using durable materials that integrated naturally into the rural environment, such as local stone and resistant masonry. The aim was not ostentation, but effectiveness in water conservation and distribution, reflecting an architecture deeply linked to its utility.

Its presence contributes to the authenticity of the Alcaria da Serra landscape, functioning as an element that reflects human interaction with the environment throughout history. The surrounding area, with its low-lying vegetation and the warm tone of the earth, complements the sobriety of the structure, offering a glimpse into the life and traditions of the Alentejo countryside, where the rhythm is dictated by nature and community needs.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt