Sparrow Rattles

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Évora > Viana do Alentejo > Alcáçovas > Bairro dos Barrancões

Location

The Chocalhos Pardalinho factory is located in Bairro dos Barrancões, an urban area of Alcáçovas, a village belonging to the municipality of Viana do Alentejo. This location, typical of a production environment, is situated in a place with a deep and recognized connection to the Alentejo cowbell tradition.

The Millennial Art of Cowbells

Cowbells represent an important part of Alcáçovas' cultural heritage, with their production spanning centuries. This object, more than a mere tool, is a symbol of pastoral life and rural Alentejo. Traditionally, cowbells were essential elements for shepherds, used to locate dispersed cattle and keep flocks united. Each piece, with its particular sound, identified the animal or owner, contributing to the characteristic melody of the Alentejo landscape.

Tradition and Innovation in Production

At Chocalhos Pardalinho, the manufacture of cowbells is a testament to the harmonious coexistence between centuries-old methods and contemporary advancements. Although production maintains the artisanal principles that define this art, it also integrates certain modern technologies to optimize the process. For example, the ancestral forge has been replaced by electric or gas ovens, and the initial cutting of the sheets is performed with an electric guillotine. This approach allows for the preservation of the essence of traditional manufacturing, while ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the craft.

The Legacy and Its Preservation

The craft of the cowbell maker is an art that has historically been passed down from generation to generation. Recognizing the value and fragility of this tradition, Chocalhos Pardalinho is actively committed to safeguarding this knowledge. Artisans are trained, even outside the family context, with the aim of perpetuating the making of cowbells and ensuring that this unique cultural expression is not lost. The factory thus plays a crucial role in maintaining a legacy that, despite changes in uses and customs, continues to be a vibrant part of Alcáçovas' identity.

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