Public Washhouse

Category: Civil Architecture > Washhouse

District: Setúbal > Barreiro > Coina > Centro de Coina

Location

The Coina Public Wash House is located in the central area of the locality of Coina, within the municipality of Barreiro. Its position in the urban fabric allows for observation of its integration into the daily life of the village, reflecting its historical and cultural importance for the surrounding community.

A 20th Century Legacy

This structure, erected in 1939, is a remarkable example of 20th-century architecture and social practices. The Public Wash House was fully operational for over five decades, until 1994, serving as an essential pillar for the domestic and social routine of Coina families. Its existence underscores the relevance of community infrastructure at a time when personal and domestic hygiene solutions were shared.

The Heart of the Community

Beyond its practical function, the wash house was a space of vital social importance. It served as a daily meeting point and social gathering place, where conversations were exchanged, news was shared, and neighborhood ties were strengthened. It was a place of work, but also of camaraderie, which for years pulsed with the life of the people of Coina, serving as a stage for the community's stories and memories.

Memory and Heritage

Currently, the Coina Public Wash House is recognized as an important element of the cultural heritage of the municipality of Barreiro. Its preservation aims to keep alive the memory of the experiences and customs that once unfolded there. It is a tangible testament to a way of life that preceded modern conveniences, offering a valuable perspective on social evolution and local traditions for those who visit the region.

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