The fountain at Praça do Peixe in Aveiro, constructed in 1876, served as a vital water source and social landmark in the heart of the fish market square. Designed by engineer João Honorato da Fonseca Regala, this limestone fountain was strategically located to support the bustling marketplace, where fish were brought in from the nearby Ria de Aveiro and sold to the public. The limestone for the fountain was sourced from the regions of Outil and Ançã, as Aveiro itself lacked such building materials. This scarcity led to the dismantling of parts of the city’s medieval walls for construction projects during the 19th century, emphasizing the adaptation to local resources.
The city of Aveiro historically relied on canals for transporting fresh water and fish. The fountain’s placement near Cais dos Botirões and Cais dos Mercantéis underscored its role in providing drinking water for both locals and visiting fishermen. Today, Praça do Peixe has transformed into a pedestrian-friendly area, popular for dining and nightlife, yet the fountain remains a central feature, linking modern Aveiro with its rich maritime heritage.
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.
