They say “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb”. This past spring weekend, lambs and sheep came to Amorosa (São Bartolomeu de Messines), a small village in the central Algarve.
The organization ‘Algarchurra’ brought together sheep and people to enjoy the beauty and benefits of the special Churra Algarvia breed of sheep. Founded in 2012, Algarchurra promotes healthy practices in sheep breeding, shearing, and wool handling.
In a joyful atmosphere that harkened the excitement of a rodeo, the tranquil sheep were brought out of their pens and sheared of their winter coats. The warm sun on a perfect weekend must have felt good on their new short wool.
The most profound characteristic of the Churra sheep is their long, elegant, twisted horns. The candy-cane shape must be quite unique in the animal world. They also have black ears, eye patches, and leg markings. Their white wool is known to be sturdy and well structured for weaving patterned fabrics.
Guests first attended a workshop in carding the raw wool into a fine structured fluff. Then the concept of spinning was introduced to the participants. A weaver was on hand to show a striking pattern from her loom.
This was the first and hopefully annual event (1º Certame de Ovinos da Raça Churra Algarvia) for the lovely Churra sheep to come to town.
Algarchurra wishes to thank the Parish Council of São Bartolomeu de Messines for organizing the event.
Photos: ERIC ROTH
