Houses of the People

Casas do Povo have been a fabric of community life for nearly 100 years, transforming from state-controlled institutions to what exists today: vibrant community centres. Our contributor, Vaughan Willmore, went to learn more about the ‘Houses of the People’. 

Casas do Povo have long played an essential role in Portugal’s social, cultural and economic well-being. They were founded in 1933 under the rule of António de Oliveira Salazar, whose government recognised the lack of effective organisation and support for agricultural workers and small farmers. 

State-funded, the houses were established in the more rural parts of the country, typically in small towns and villages. They provided essential services such as health and social care, and even insurance for those who were unable to work due to poor health. In many respects, they were rural health centres – by 1960, approximately 90% of them had their own medical services. They also provided opportunities for workers and their families to socialise and participate in state-organised activities.  

However, there was another side to the houses: they allowed the government to exercise some oversight of their activities and of the people who used them. This was partly due to them also being used for the administration of labour relations, with an emphasis on preventing the rise of perceived socialist or anarchist unions, which were viewed as threats to the government.  

As with many aspects of Portuguese life, things changed significantly following the revolution of 1974. No longer instruments of government control, they were handed over to local communities. In many regions, they were reinvented as independent associations run by the people, for the people. They adapted to meet the specific needs of their local populations, focusing on cultural activities, social services and community wellbeing. 

Today, every Casa do Povo is unique and is shaped by the character and needs of the community it serves. In Olhão, for example, the Casa do Povo is located on the outskirts of the city in the village of Moncarapacho. Led by president Joaquim Fernandes, it has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years with the old building being restored and modernised. It hosts a range of services for young and old alike, including a library. Language lessons, Pilates classes, book launches, cultural exhibitions, along with support and advice to elderly and/or disadvantaged residents, are all provided by the People’s House of the Municipality of Olhão. It’s a great meeting place, too, for social and business-related activities. As the president, Senhor Fernandes said, “Houses such as this are the key to community life, caring for the needy, and preserving and celebrating local culture.” 

Many houses promote sports and recreation, providing facilities for local football teams, gymnasiums and other recreational activities. In Madeira, the Casa do Povo is heavily involved in fostering youth football programmes, helping to develop regional talent and encouraging participation in sports. Other houses offer nurseries for young children and infant schools, along with after-school clubs to support working parents. 

As the centenary of their establishment approaches, there’s every likelihood these ‘houses of the people’ will become even more important, especially in regions experiencing depopulation and economic decline. That said, along with many long-standing institutions, they face challenges and not least with their running costs. There are many ways we can help, including using the many services they offer and utilising their meeting rooms for business meetings, parties and other celebrations. Fundraising activities are also greatly appreciated.  

The history of the Casas do Povo is deeply intertwined with Portugal’s rural heritage and the changing tides of its political landscape. They’re also testament to the resilience and the community spirit of the Portuguese people. With our support, they will continue to be houses of the people.

For a complete list of all of Portugal´s Casas do Povo go to www.eas.pt/listagem-completa-de-casas-do-povo-em-portugal

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