House of Flowers

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Tourist Attraction

District: Madeira > Santana > Achada de Simão Alves

Location:

The Casa das Flores is located in the Achada de Simão Alves area, a picturesque corner of the municipality of Santana, on the island of Madeira. This area is distinguished by its rural surroundings, where the lush green of the landscape extends across valleys and slopes. It is a place that offers a calm environment, ideal for appreciating the serenity and authenticity of Madeiran life, far from the faster pace of other areas.

Its position in Achada de Simão Alves places it in a context of natural beauty, where traditional architecture harmonizes with the agricultural scenery, offering a genuine view of the region's characteristics.

Distinct Architecture:

This "Casa das Flores" is a notable example of Santana's typical constructions. Its main characteristic is the triangular thatched roof, which extends almost to the ground, giving it an unmistakable silhouette. This covering, made of dry vegetation, was a practical solution for insulating the dwelling from climatic variations, keeping the interior cool in summer and warmer in winter.

The exterior walls, painted in vibrant colors such as bright red, blue, or green, highlighted by white outlines, create a striking contrast with the surrounding vegetation. This combination of shapes and colors not only reveals the original functionality of the dwelling but also its unique aesthetic, which has made it an iconic element of the Madeiran landscape.

Legacy and Symbolism:

More than just a simple building, the Casa das Flores is a living testament to Santana's cultural heritage. These houses represent the traditional dwellings of the region's former farmers, designed to adapt to the island's needs and climate. Their presence evokes a time when subsistence depended on the land and construction reflected popular wisdom in the use of available materials.

Despite their modest construction and limited interior space, the beauty and originality of these houses have earned them a status as a symbol of local identity. The Casa das Flores, in this context, allows for a direct connection with the history and traditions of a community that knew how to build in harmony with nature, valuing the resilience and heritage of its ancestors.

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