Interpretive Center of the Rural World

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Évora > Arraiolos > Vimieiro

Location

The Rural World Interpretive Centre is located in the peaceful village of Vimieiro, part of the municipality of Arraiolos. Its location allows visitors to immerse themselves in the characteristic Alentejo landscape, punctuated by fields and hills that echo the experiences the centre aims to preserve. It is integrated into the heart of a community where rural roots are still felt.

The Memory of the Alentejo Land

This museological centre is dedicated to preserving and disseminating the memory of the Alentejo rural world, focusing on the period from the late 19th century, marked by significant legal changes in land management, until the mid-20th century, with the arrival of mechanization in agriculture. It is a journey through time that reveals the reality of rural life, an era of great effort and simplicity, which shaped the identity of this region.

The Cycles and Life in the Countryside

Inside, the Interpretive Centre presents the various cycles of Alentejo agriculture throughout the year. Through a carefully selected collection of old photographs, agricultural tools, and everyday utensils, visitors can understand essential tasks such as sowing, harvesting, or threshing, as well as the transformation of agricultural products, like olive oil or cheese production. The exhibitions also address the customs and celebrations that rhythmically marked the life of rural communities.

The Legacy of the People of Alentejo

This space is, above all, a tribute to the men and women who dedicated their lives to arduous work in the Alentejo countryside. Much of the exhibited collection was lovingly donated or lent by the local population of Arraiolos itself, making the centre an authentic and living testament. It reflects the hard work, but also the resilience and cultural richness of an era, offering a valuable perspective on the roots of Alentejo society.

An Accessible Space

Designed to welcome all visitors, the Rural World Interpretive Centre is adapted for people with reduced mobility. This care ensures that exploring its exhibition and discovering the stories of the Alentejo countryside are possible for anyone who wishes to experience it, guaranteeing a comfortable and inclusive experience.

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