Mataco - Settlements

The Mataco live in villages of varying size, comprised of from 1 to 100 extended families. Because of lack of water and the abundance of fish, most settlements are situated along the rivers. Those who are not riverine Mataco also prefer the vicinity of waters. The spatial layout of the village reflects the social relations, usually family ties, of the inhabitants. The traditional beehivelike grass hut disappeared as a permanent dwelling around the time of the Chaco War and is seen only occasionally at temporary fishing camps. Today the Mataco live in square wattle-and-daub houses or, if residing in urban areas, in adobe or brick houses.