新媒网 · 跨境数据社区

🚗 While on a short road trip in Portugal earlier this year, we visited the unique striped houses in Costa Nova near the coast, known as 'palheiros', which have a fascinating origin. Originally, these houses were used as fishermen's storage huts to store equipment and salted fish. They were painted in bright, alternating colours (typically vertical stripes) to protect them and make them easily visible from the sea, helping fishermen spot them even in foggy conditions. Over time, some of these huts were converted into summer residences, especially as Costa Nova became a popular beach destination for families from nearby Aveiro. Now, the style has become a unique characteristic of Costa Nova. Today, the 'palheiro's are carefully maintained and often used as cafes, guesthouses, and private homes. (Photos by Mark A. Bailey for Distant Horizons Malta)