Historical and Natural Grandeur of Aveiro
Located along the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, in the Centro Region of Portugal, is the breathtaking city of Aveiro. Although not as popular to tourists as other cities in Europe, it is quite known among Portuguese locals for its canals, which are often compared to the canals of Venice, Italy. In fact, Aveiro got its nickname “The Venice of Portugal” from its canals and gondola-like boats.
Similar to the city of Venice, Aveiro in Portugal is also known for its rich history. It was built by the Romans in the 10th century, and it was named Aviarium, meaning “a gathering place of birds”. From its establishment, the city has been popular with traders because of its seaport. Even up to now the Porto de Aveiro is still a busy and important seaport, bringing in cargo ships and fishing boats from different coastal towns and cities.
As an industrial coastal city, Aveiro thrives mainly from its fishing industry, seaweed industry, and salt-making industry. Tourists who want to observe the bustling industrial city life of Aveiro can walk by the fish market, Mercado de Peixe, at early morning or night. They can also walk by the canal and enjoy the view of lined up whitewashed cottages and the passing barcos moliceiros or gondola-like boats.
As important as the fishing, seaweed harvesting, and salt-making are, these industries are not the only reasons why more and more tourists are coming to Aveiro Portugal region. The city is also becoming quite known for its great-tasting local food and delicacies. There are many restaurants offering sumptuous delights, such as fish soups, eel stews, and leitao or suckling pig. Aside from that, Aveiro offers sweet treats. Among the most famous of its sweets are the ovos moles and trouxas de ovos, which are both made with eggs and sugar.
In terms of attractions, tourists can choose to head over to the beaches or to the central part of town. Aveiro in Portugal takes pride in its long history, and part of its history is the old buildings that are still standing in the area. One example is the famous Convento de Jesus, a 15th century convent in Praça do Milenário that now serves as a museum. This museum, which is dedicated to Saint Joana, daughter of Alfonso V, features Baroque interiors and contains several significant artworks, including exquisite ceramics and embroideries made in the 1700s and 1800s.
Other culturally and historically significant buildings in the city include the Sé Cathedral de Aveiro, which was founded in 1423; the Igreja das Carmelitas or the Church of St. John the Evangelist, which was founded in 1657; the Igreja do Carmo, which was built in 1613; and the Igreja de S. Gonçalos, which was constructed in the early 18th century.
Aside from these, there are also several modern attractions in Aveiro Portugal Area. These include the beautifully designed Hotel as Américas, the Lighthouse or Praia de Barra, and the distinguished University of Aveiro.
Nothing can quite describe the uniqueness of Aveiro in Portugal. With its centuries-old cathedrals, its canals and its port, it acknowledges its history, and yet, with its modern buildings, new restaurants, and resorts, it strives to keep up with the modern times. With all the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes to be taken in at Aveiro, it is no wonder that this coastal city is becoming one of the popular tourist destinations in Portugal.
