Os forais manuelinos das comendas da Ordem de Cristo: em torno da gestão dos recursos aquíferos

Abstract

In this paper, we will study the management of resources associated with water through the municipal charters that King Manuel granted to the communities that lived in the commanderies of the Order of Christ in the 16th century. The aim is to identify not only specific determinations related to the use of these resources but also to point out specificities in their management according to their location as territories of the Order of Christ. At the same time, the tombs of the commanderies will be analysed regarding the information on the use of water resources. In the charters, there are references not only to fish and crustaceans but also to watermills, defining fees and rents to be paid. Activities from the three production sectors, such as fishing and salt pans, milling, and trade, are identified. The charter of Castro Marim will be emphasised for the diversity of information on aquifer resources.