Stone huts or "cabanes"

 

A “cabana” is a dry stone construction normally attached to the retaining wall of a “feixa” or a “bancal”, with a vaulted stone roof that may either start at ground level or from low lateral walls called “peus”.

A coat of lime or light mortar was applied to the top of the vault to make it solid and waterproof. Claylike soil was then spread over it to prevent water from seeping in through the gaps between the stones, and irises or saffron were planted to hold the soil in place.

These constructions resulted from a need for adequate shelter for people and animals, storing tools, and drying fruit. In the case of the latter, the stone hut was built facing south, in order to receive more sunlight.

Generally, the entrance was left completely open and a stone retaining wall was constructed at the back, although bare rock was often struck, making this wall unnecessary.

 

 

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