Encelh

Encelh is a term used to describe a type of domestic water well or borehole in Sardinia, Italy. These wells are typically dug or drilled into the ground to access groundwater, providing a source of drinking water for local communities. Encelh is derived from the Sardinian language, which is a branch of the Romance languages spoken in Sardinia and other parts of Italy.

The term encelh is associated with traditional architecture in Sardinia, particularly in rural areas where access to public water supplies was limited. Encelh wells often required manual or animal-powered efforts to excavate and maintain, and were likely used as a supplementary source of water during times of drought or water scarcity.

In some regions of Sardinia, encelh wells have been preserved as historic and cultural landmarks, representing the region's rich maritime history and unique cultural heritage. These sites provide valuable insights into the lives of Sardinian communities, highlighting the importance of water conservation and community resilience in the face of challenges.

Research on encelh wells has the potential to inform contemporary strategies for sustainable water management and highlights the need to preserve traditional knowledge and practices related to water access.