The Textile Traditions of Porto

In Porto’s old town, linen can be seen lining the streets. High above, freshly washed laundry flutters in the breeze, secured to twine between windows. On the street, linen scarves, cotton aprons, and tea towels decorate the entrances of souvenir shops. Many of these shops are owned by Bangladeshi immigrants. Their home country shares a history of textile manufacturing with Portugal.

As I examined the tea towels, I felt a strong sense of nostalgia. I thought about the drawer at home filled with a variety of tea towels. Some are souvenirs from my own trips. Others are ones I have inherited. Among them are William Morris-patterned linens and a faded map of Hadrian’s Wall. There is also a cloth showing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and another that states life begins at 40. Each time I use a new tea towel, I recall conversations at different kitchen sinks with others who used these cloths.

Now, as my child helps dry dishes while I wash, we bond over these familiar, worn-out rags. This domestic routine brings comfort. Before leaving the shop, I choose a new tea towel. It will be used to talk about the day’s events and eventually be passed on.