barracones

Barracones, also known as baraccas, are temporary housing structures. Historically, they were often erected to house large numbers of people, such as soldiers or laborers, especially during times of conflict or large-scale projects. The term originates from the Italian word "baracca," meaning a simple hut or shed. These structures were typically constructed from readily available and inexpensive materials like wood, corrugated iron, or canvas, prioritizing speed of erection and cost-effectiveness over comfort or permanence.

Barracones were common in military camps and during wartime to provide shelter for troops. They were also utilized in mining towns, construction sites, and during periods of rapid industrialization to house workers. The design of barracones varied widely depending on their purpose and the available resources, but they generally consisted of a basic frame covered with a protective material. While functional for shelter, living conditions within barracones could often be rudimentary and crowded. Today, the concept of barracones persists in various forms of temporary or emergency housing.