Almalaguês – Weaving the Future from the Tapestry of Time
This project revitalises the traditional weaving of the village of Almalaguês in Portugal, engaging local communities and younger generations through workshops, research, and cultural events. It promotes intergenerational dialogue, ensuring the continuity of ancestral know-how.
The project Almalaguês – Weaving the Future from the Tapestry of Time aims to safeguard and revitalise the traditional weaving practices of Almalaguês, a village near Coimbra, Portugal. These textile techniques, deeply rooted in the cultural and economic history of the region, had been declining for decades. The inscription of the practice in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage is planned to take place by the end of 2025, and procedures are underway to include it in the National System of Qualification and Certification of Traditional Handicrafts.
The initiative is led by the Past Heritage Association (“Associação Herança do Passado”), supported by the Municipality of Coimbra, and brings together local artisans, cultural professionals, researchers and volunteers. Through a wide range of activities – including weaving workshops, public demonstrations, and intergenerational education and artistic residencies – the project promotes the transmission of ancestral knowledge to younger generations and wider audiences. Sustainable and natural materials are used, and the connection between craftsmanship, ecological awareness and community life plays a central role.
Community participation is embedded in the project’s approach. Activities have involved schools, elderly residents and local associations, with weaving used as a tool for memory-sharing and creative engagement. Events have taken place not only in cultural spaces, but also in classrooms, homes and public venues, strengthening local bonds and reactivating the presence of weaving in everyday life.
In addition to its educational outreach, the project has carried out extensive research and documentation. This includes interviews with elder weavers, the recording of oral histories, and the collection of traditional patterns, tools and techniques. These efforts have been brought together in a digital archive, made accessible to the local community and future practitioners.
The team also explored similarities with other textile traditions in Portugal and Europe, identifying shared techniques, patterns and challenges. This comparative work has helped to situate the weaving of Almalaguês within a wider cultural and historical framework, strengthening its visibility as part of Europe’s living heritage.
“An innovative approach that combines traditional heritage with contemporary practices, supported by strong public engagement and numerous exhibitions. Excellent integration of community involvement, research, and sustainability through a participatory framework,” the Awards’ Jury noted. “The Almalaguês Weaving project provides meaningful income opportunities for non-traditional audiences and vulnerable groups, demonstrating how heritage can contribute to both social inclusion and economic resilience,” the Jury emphasised.
Contact: Maria Carlos Pêgo | Almalaguês – Weaving the Future from the Tapestry of Time – Municipality of Coimbra | maria.carlos@cm-coimbra.pt | www.cm-coimbra.pt