The Canal do Cojo in Aveiro, part of the city’s canal network, dates back to the 15th century, originally constructed to support the thriving salt industry. The canal facilitated salt transportation from nearby salt pans to the center of Aveiro, enabling efficient distribution across Portugal. Over the years, as industrial needs shifted, the canals, including Canal do Cojo, lost their practical purpose but were later revitalized as a cultural and tourist attraction. Today, Canal do Cojo serves primarily for leisure activities, offering scenic views and pathways that connect visitors to iconic sites such as the Ponte dos Laços de Amizade and Forum Aveiro.
The canal is famously populated by moliceiros, traditional boats unique to Aveiro. These boats, originally designed for collecting seaweed (moliço), were crucial to local agriculture, as the seaweed was used as a natural fertilizer for crops. Moliceiros are distinctive not only for their functional history but also for their vibrant decorations. Each boat features hand-painted panels with humorous or cultural themes, symbolizing local stories and folklore. Today, the moliceiros primarily serve tourists, allowing visitors to experience Aveiro’s picturesque canals and maritime heritage up close.
This dedication to preserving moliceiros highlights Aveiro’s commitment to its cultural heritage. Efforts by local shipbuilders, now recognized as intangible heritage artisans, have kept the tradition alive, transforming the moliceiros into a proud symbol of Aveiro’s history and community identity.
Join us for a three-hour walking tour through Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its picturesque canals and traditional moliceiro boats. We’ll begin in the Beira Mar district, exploring narrow streets with colorful tiled facades and Art Nouveau architecture, and hear tales of Aveiro’s history as a center for salt production and fishing.
As we stroll along the historic Rua de Coimbra, you’ll discover the story behind Aveiro’s famous ovos moles—creamy custard treats wrapped in rice paper—and other local pastries. We’ll make a stop at a popular shopping center for a modern taste of the city before crossing Aveiro’s iconic pedestrian bridges, like the colorful Ponte do Laço, which offer stunning canal views. The route will lead us to Praça do Peixe, a lively square where traditional and contemporary Aveiro meet, rounding off the journey with a true sense of this charming city’s history and flavors.
