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CHAPTER 9
HOUSES
Much like all around the world, one of the things that most changed during the
20th century is the housing. In Ciadoncha, the introduction of electrical light in 1904 or
1905 and water in 1977 have been the main cause of this change.
There are various types of houses in the town. Some have been restored, keeping
their old style, others are chalet-type homes and others are very modern. Sadly, there are
also some that are falling or have collapsed and have not been rebuilt.
Dirt road and houses prior to being restored
Photo provided by Federico Varona
Fundamentally, the old houses were comprised of the living area and the stable.
The animals were very important in the life of the town, especially during the first
decades of the century before agriculture was mechanized. The cattle, besides serving for
work and food, also served to give heat. That is why many old houses had the habitations
on the second floor and the first floor, or bottom floor, was used to maintain the animals.
According to some participants, many years ago there were people who lived on the same
floor with the animals.
Heating the “Gloria” (fireplace). 2005
Photo Lucía Varona
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