In Asturian, a 'teito' is a 'roof.' Traditionally, in Somiedo, natural materials from the surroundings were used for construction. What makes this area unique is that, to 'cover' or 'teitar' houses and huts, a very abundant shrub in the region was used, the 'escoba' or 'retama' (Cytisus scoparius). Currently, the presence of houses with 'teito' made of broom is quite rare (the facilities of the Ecomuseum of Somiedo in Veigas showcase three such constructions to visitors). However, the 'cabanas de teito' remain one of the most numerous, visited, and well-known ethnographic and architectural elements in the Park.
Estas cabanas de teito fueron utilizadas durante siglos por los ganaderos como refugio en las zonas de pastos a mayor altitud, a donde subían con el ganado en verano. Esas zonas de "verano", "branu", o "braña" se fueron poblando con numerosos refugios ("cabanas de teito") que dieron lugar a los valiosos conjuntos etnográficos que podemos admirar a lo largo y ancho de Somiedo.
