Sistelo Granaries

Category: Civil Architecture > Granaries

District: Viana do Castelo > Arcos de Valdevez > Sistelo > Portela de Alvite

Location

The Granaries of Sistelo are located in the heart of the village, specifically in Lugar da Igreja, in the Portela de Alvite area. Situated on one of Sistelo village's communal threshing floors, these structures stand at a central point, framed by the traditional environment of the locality. Their position offers a perspective on the life and agricultural practices that have shaped this landscape in the municipality of Arcos de Valdevez.

Traditional Architecture

These unique constructions are examples of the vernacular architecture of Minho. Built predominantly from granite, an abundant rock in the region, the granaries of Sistelo feature a functional and robust design. They are characterized by a structure elevated on pillars, which isolates them from the ground, protecting the corn from humidity and small animals. Natural ventilation is ensured by slits or lateral openings, allowing for proper drying of the cereal.

An Agricultural and Cultural Legacy

The granaries represent an essential element of the agricultural history of Sistelo and the Peneda-Gerês National Park region. They were vital constructions for the subsistence of local communities, serving to store corn, a cereal that played a central role in the diet and economy of Minho, sometimes referred to as “the gold of Minho.” Their presence on the communal threshing floor illustrates the shared cultivation and storage system that characterized rural life for generations.

Landscape Setting

The view of the granaries on the threshing floor, with the surrounding landscape of Sistelo in the background, offers a particularly interesting visual setting. These constructions are not just artifacts of a past function; they are an integral part of the village's cultural landscape, contributing to its identity and the beauty of the place. Their presence recalls the rhythm of life and the ancestral practices that define this territory.

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