Aveiro

About

Established during Roman times, Aveiro served as a major port until a storm raised a sandbar along its coast in the 16th century. The sandbar not only blocked the port, but the resulting stagnant water brought disease and the population was reduced by half within two decades. Today, Aveiro upholds an ancient fishing tradition as well as boasting thriving salt and seaweed industries. Visitors may wander along the canals, making their way to the fish market to enjoy a view of colorful tiled cottages facing each other across the canal. The gonda-like boats to be found there, known as “barcos moliceiros”, are traditional flat-bottomed boats used for fishing and collecting seaweed from the lagoons. It is also worth stepping into the Convento de Jesus to admire its renaissance cloisters and 17th century gilded carvings. Though not exactly Venice, this Portuguese fishing town certainly has a unique charm of its own.