In Portugal, as well as in neighboring Spain, it is almost impossible to imagine a house without shutters. This element, so common in practically all windows in the country, is not only functional, but also reflects a particular history that distinguishes Portugal from other European countries. While in many regions of Europe windows are often devoid of additional protection or equipped only with curtains, in Portugal blinds are an essential element of residential architecture.
According to , the popularity of shutters is deeply linked to climatic and historical factors. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by very hot summers and large differences in temperature between day and night, is one of the main reasons. Blinds help keep interiors cool during hot days by blocking direct sunlight. During winter, they help to conserve heat inside the home, thus reducing the need for heating or air conditioning systems.
However, the widespread use of shutters in Portugal cannot be explained solely by the climate. Privacy is a deeply rooted value in Iberian society, and curtains play an important role in this regard. They allow you to control both the entry of light and the curiosity of those outside. As highlighted by the Spanish publication The Confidentialthis preference contrasts with that of northern European countries, where Protestant tradition and lower levels of sunlight encourage more open windows and spaces with fewer visual barriers.
Another important reason goes back to the Arab influence on the architecture of the Iberian Peninsula. During the centuries of Islamic rule, Arab buildings introduced elements such as lattices, which helped regulate the entry of light, while ensuring comfort and privacy inside. This concept evolved over time, giving rise to the modern blinds we know today.
Nowadays, blinds have also followed technological advances, incorporating more efficient materials and automated systems that optimize energy consumption. Thus, this element, which at first glance may seem like just a detail, combines tradition, functionality and innovation, adapting to the needs of modern life.
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