Maria Rita de Bragança

Music

Guitars and violins fueled lively festivities

During social events, when festivities became lively, it was common for guests to play the guitar or violin and sing before transitioning into dances.

At the table

High cost of beef

In 1739, beef was so expensive in Sines that there were no bidders to supply it, making its sale free instead of regulated.

Daily life

Water delivered by paid carriers

Drinking water was often delivered to homes by water carriers; in one noble household, a water carrier was paid 2$400 réis per month for this service.

What people wore

Clothing values and status in inventories

Merchant inventories from the era record clothing values in réis, such as a woman's red linen cloak valued at 12,000 réis and a man's cloth cloak at 3,000 réis. Ordinary daily clothing was rarely listed, as inventories primarily highlighted luxury items used to signal social status.

Getting around

The seggia carriage rental

A seggia was a common carriage used for travel in the late 18th century, costing between 48 and 60 réis to rent for a day or half-day. It could carry two passengers and operate from morning until midnight.

What it cost

Bread prices and weight regulation

In the 18th century, the price of bread was tied to its weight. When the price of wheat reached 40 réis per arrátel, a loaf of bread cost 10 réis, but during shortages, the bread weight was reduced to maintain affordability.