Infante Afonso, Duke of Oporto

Music

Common instruments in rural homes

In rural Minho, it was rare to find a house without a viola or a cavaquinho, and sometimes a harmonica, which later became known as a concertina. Spontaneous neighborhood parties often erupted when someone started playing these instruments.

Daily life

Housing conditions for the working class

In cities like Lisbon and Porto, the working class lived in poor conditions, often in overcrowded neighborhoods known as patios or islands, which lacked basic hygiene and sewage systems. Household furniture was very limited for these families, unlike the luxurious homes of the bourgeoisie.

What it cost

Low wages for Porto factory workers

In Porto, factory workers earned an average of 420 réis per day in the late 19th century, while young female workers often received only about 40 réis, which was not enough to purchase a single kilogram of bread.

What people wore

Practical Habits for Preserving Clothing

To preserve their footwear during long journeys, men would carry their boots or shoes slung over their shoulders on a staff and walk barefoot, only putting them on upon reaching their destination. Similarly, women in some regions would lift and pin their heavy skirts while working to facilitate movement and protect the fabric.

Getting around

Hiring Mules and Drivers

Travelers often rode mules, which were paid up to 12 testoons per day; the driver (arrieiro) was expected to be paid 240 réis per day in addition to his food.

At the table

Common rural diet and shared meals

Ordinary rural families frequently ate from a large, shared earthenware bowl containing vegetables and potatoes, often seasoned with a drizzle of olive oil, pork fat, or salted sardines. Bread, specifically corn bread (broa), was a staple consumed daily and often kept fresh for a week.