Thatched houses are remnants of primitive buildings made of wood and thatch. The use of these materials, especially wood, was due to their abundance and, at the time, how easy to purchase and affordable they were. The cultivation of cereals, such as wheat and rye, allowed the use of straw (thatch) to cover the housing. These ingredients were also used in flour to sustain the local population.   Visit some of the local houses and discover their history. Experience how the Madeiran people used to live in houses up to 240 years old.  Visit the Queimadas park and have a look at the ancient forest, the Laurissilva. Take home a typical house souvenir so you can remember this amazing day.