Islamic Baths of Loulé and Barreto Manor House

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Faro > Loulé > Loulé > Centro Histórico

Location

This historic complex is nestled in the heart of Loulé's Historic Centre, a vibrant area that bears witness to the city's long history. Its integration into the urban fabric allows visitors a direct understanding of the locality's evolution through the centuries.

A Journey Through Time

In Loulé, a unique site reveals the superimposition of histories and cultures over five hundred years. Here, one can explore the remains of two distinct buildings that share the same space, recounting a little of the daily life and architectural evolution of the city: the Islamic Baths and the Barreto Manor House.

The Ancient Islamic Baths

Unexpectedly discovered, the Islamic Baths of Loulé, or hammam, are the only ones of their kind known in Portugal and feature one of the most complete layouts in the Iberian Peninsula. Dating from the 12th century, these public baths include hot, warm, and cold rooms, in addition to support spaces such as vestibules and latrines. To aid understanding, the site offers a view of the heating ducts and the underfloor heating system (hypocaust).

Located more than two and a half meters below the city's current level, their presentation uses light and digital technology to recreate the original atmosphere and functionality of each room. Upon visiting, it is possible to experience the evocation of traditional aromas, such as lavender and rose water, which refer to the hygiene and social rituals practiced there.

The Barreto Manor House

Above the remains of the ancient baths stands the Barreto Manor House, built between the late 15th and early 16th centuries. This house belonged to the notable Barreto family, who received the land from King Afonso V. The house's architecture, visible upon arrival, stands out for elements such as an original ogival arch.

On-site interpretative tools allow visitors to follow its transformation over time, specifically how the residence was expanded and adapted during different phases of its history, reflecting the family's life throughout the centuries.

Memories of the City

The space offers an opportunity to observe how layers of history intertwine in the same location. In addition to the baths and the manor house, a section of the ancient city wall can be seen, highlighting the site's strategic importance throughout the centuries.

The exhibition integrates artifacts found during excavations, which complement the narrative of the buildings and enrich the understanding of life in Loulé from the Islamic period to the modern era. The exhibition design was conceived to enhance both immovable and movable heritage, ensuring a clear and accessible reading of the history contained within the site.

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