The gaffs that hid the sick from society in Portugal

In Portugal, historical institutions known as gafarias provided care for leprosy patients, reflecting early organized assistance for marginalized individuals. Established outside city walls, these facilities were not merely places of exclusion but also offered support and resources for their inhabitants. The term 'gafaria' originates from 'gafo', an old term for leprosy sufferers. Notable examples include the Hospital de São Lázaro in Coimbra, founded in 1210. Queen D. Leonor played a crucial role in the evolution of social assistance, leading to the establishment of Misericórdias that took over many gafarias. Archaeological findings, such as those in Lagos, reveal the historical significance of these institutions. The decline of gafarias coincided with advancements in medical knowledge and changes in healthcare systems, yet their legacy remains a vital part of Portugal's social history.