Pools
Pools are open holes in the ground, varying in size and shape and enclosed by dry stone walls. They were used to collect rainwater for animal and human consumption.
If the pool was deep, steps were built into its wall in order to access the bottom of the pool when the water level was low.
The method used to fill these pools was important and could be accomplished by using a small basin made especially for this purpose or by making use of a ditch on the side of a path. The choice of terrain was also of consequence, with clay soil improving the pool’s impermeability.
Some pools were built on private land, but normally they were found next to paths and trails so everyone could use them.
At one time, pools existed within or near all of the villages in this region. However, for hygienic reasons, most of them have disappeared.
In La Fatarella, at Pla de la Bassa (literally translated to “Pool Plain”), there is a weighbridge where an excellent example of one of these constructions in its original location can still be appreciated.