Pataruos

Pataruos is a term that appears in historical and ethnographic contexts, primarily associated with indigenous cultures of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. It refers to a specific type of traditional dwelling or communal house. These structures are typically constructed from natural materials readily available in the rainforest environment. Common building materials include wood for the frame, palm leaves or other plant fibers for roofing and walls, and sometimes mud or clay for sealing.

The design of pataruos often emphasizes functionality and adaptation to the local climate. They are usually large, open-plan structures, designed to house multiple families or a whole community. This communal living arrangement reflects the social organization of the people who build and inhabit them. The open design facilitates ventilation, crucial in the hot and humid tropical climate, and also promotes social interaction among residents.

Historically, pataruos served as centers for daily life, social gatherings, ceremonies, and sleeping quarters. Their construction and maintenance were often a communal effort, reinforcing social bonds within the group. While the exact form and name may vary slightly among different indigenous groups, the concept of a large, communal dwelling made from natural materials is a recurring theme in the architecture of many Amazonian peoples. The continued existence and evolution of such structures depend on the preservation of traditional knowledge and the cultural practices of these communities.