The Moorish Woman's House

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Museum

District: Madeira > Ribeira Brava > Tabua > Bica de Pau

Location

A Casa da Moura is situated in the Bica de Pau area, a part of the Tabua locality which falls within the municipality of Ribeira Brava. This typically elevated and predominantly residential location offers a peaceful perspective over the surrounding landscape. Tabua is characterized by its gentle slopes and the presence of vegetation, a natural scenery that defines much of Madeira Island. Access to the site harmoniously integrates into the urban and rural fabric of the parish, leading to an environment of serenity.

The Name and the Legend

The name "A Casa da Moura" (The Moorish Woman's House) evokes a rich heritage of narratives and folklore, common in various regions of Portugal. "Mouras encantadas" (enchanted Moorish women) are legendary figures, often associated with ancient sites, natural elements, or isolated buildings, where they are said to guard secrets or treasures. This designation imbues the house with an aura of mystery, inviting observers to reflect on the stories and popular beliefs that may have shaped its identity over time. Thus, it represents a connection to the cultural and symbolic dimension of the region.

Character of the Building

The very name "A Casa da Moura" suggests a building with roots in the past, fitting into the traditional architecture of Tabua's rural area. While the specifics of its construction may vary, its presence contributes to the character of the local landscape. Its structure, whether simpler or with details indicating earlier periods, offers a glimpse into the typical constructions that populate this part of Madeira Island, bearing witness to the life and work of past generations in this territory.

Surrounding Environment

The area surrounding A Casa da Moura is characterized by an atmosphere of quietude and a connection to nature. Situated within a landscape marked by greenery, typical of Tabua's agricultural and residential areas, the environment invites observation and the enjoyment of tranquility. Proximity to natural elements, such as endemic vegetation and the possibility of glimpsing, in the distance, the ocean or the deep valleys of Ribeira Brava, reinforces the sensation of a place where serenity reigns and history intertwines with the natural scenery.