Lavrado

Lavrado refers to a type of agricultural landscape found primarily in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in northern Portugal and Galicia in northwestern Spain. It is characterized by small, often irregularly shaped fields, or plots of land, that are cultivated for a variety of crops. These fields are typically enclosed by stone walls or hedges, which serve to delineate boundaries and prevent livestock from straying. The term "lavrado" suggests a landscape that has been extensively worked and cultivated over many generations, reflecting a long history of human intervention in the natural environment. These agricultural plots are often interspersed with small woodlands, pastures, and sometimes even streams or springs, creating a mosaic-like pattern on the land. The traditional farming practices associated with lavrados often involve a mix of subsistence farming and small-scale commercial production, with crops like potatoes, corn, beans, and various vegetables being common. The specific characteristics of a lavrado can vary depending on the local topography, climate, and historical land use patterns, but the underlying concept of small, intensively managed agricultural parcels remains consistent.