Hacienda is a large farm or country estate in Spanish America. In such countries as Mexico, most farms are called haciendas. The word haciend a may also refer to the main building on the estate. Many haciendas have adobe walls. Large wooden beams fastened with rawhide strips support a low, sloping tile roof. Haciendas are built for inside coolness and outdoor living. Shady verandas may surround three sides of a patio (open court).
