House of the People of Moura Morta

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Vila Real > Peso da Régua > Silvares > Pulgeiros de Cima

Location

The Casa do Povo de Moura Morta is located in the area of Pulgeiros de Cima, part of the locality of Silvares, integrated into the municipality of Peso da Régua. This area lies at the heart of the Douro wine region, a World Heritage site, where the landscape is dominated by valleys and terraces that sculpt the hillsides. Silvares, as a village, offers a calm and genuine environment, typical of rural Douro communities, with the Casa do Povo occupying a prominent place in its local structure.

The Community Legacy

Throughout Portuguese history, Casas do Povo (People's Houses) played a fundamental role in the social and cultural organization of rural communities. In the Bairro da Casa do Povo de Moura Morta, this particular building would have been a central point in the lives of Silvares' inhabitants. It represents a testament to the solidarity and collective spirit that shaped the identity of these villages, functioning as a meeting place and support hub for the population over the decades.

The Name and its Evocation

The name "Moura Morta" (Dead Moorish Woman) imbues this place with an aura of mystery and a strong connection to the rich tapestry of Portuguese legends and folk tales. Names like this, often rooted in ancestral narratives linked to Moorish figures or events from time immemorial, invite imagination. It suggests a layer of history and folklore that enriches the visitor's perception of the region's traditions and deep past, sparking curiosity about its origins.

Preservation and Local Character

The existence of a rehabilitation project for the buildings in the Bairro where the Casa do Povo de Moura Morta is located indicates the value attributed to these structures. It demonstrates a concern for preserving the architectural heritage and historical memory of the built complex, ensuring its continuity in the landscape. Observing these constructions allows one to understand a bit of the Douro's vernacular architecture, characterized by its simplicity, functionality, and integration into the rural environment.

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