The construction of Igreja da Misericórdia in 1600, and Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Apresentação, which began in 1554 and was completed in the early 17th century, marked a significant era in Aveiro’s history. Both churches arose during a time of severe hardship for the city. The destruction of Aveiro’s port and subsequent economic decline, coupled with the political instability of the Iberian Union (1580–1640) under Spanish rule, created a turbulent environment. Amid these challenges, religious institutions and brotherhoods became vital to maintaining social and spiritual cohesion, and Aveiro’s brotherhoods played a prominent role in supporting these architectural endeavors.
Igreja da Misericórdia, designed by architect Gregório Lourenço, stands as a remarkable example of 17th-century religious architecture. Built under the patronage of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia, this church was considered one of the largest and most influential of the misericórdias (charity brotherhoods) in Portugal. Its grandeur is evident in its Mannerist portal and the 19th-century azulejo tiles adorning its facade, featuring symbolic elements such as the Royal Coat of Arms, the Cross of the Order of Christ, and the Armillary Sphere—all embodying Portugal’s religious and historical heritage.
Inside, the church boasts a high nave adorned with 16th-century azulejos, stone side altars, and gilded seating. The main chapel showcases a polychrome Ançã stone vault, a Mannerist altarpiece, and Baroque frescoes, capturing the artistry of several periods. Serving as Aveiro’s cathedral from 1775 to 1830, the church highlights the importance of faith in the city’s resilience and reflects Aveiro’s rich cultural and religious legacy.
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.
