Canal do Cojo and Sons em Trânsito: The Heartbeat of Aveiro’s Cultural Scene
The Canal do Cojo, one of the principal waterways in Aveiro, traces its origins back to the 18th century when it was established to support local industries like ceramics, salt, and fishing. The canal’s name comes from the area known as “Cojo,” home to bustling mills and later the Cojo Factory, a ceramics plant pivotal to Aveiro’s economy. Historically, goods were transported along this canal on moliceiro boats to nearby warehouses and train connections, fostering Aveiro’s economic growth. Today, Canal do Cojo serves as a scenic route for tourist boat rides, contributing to Aveiro’s charm as the “Venice of Portugal”.
Adding a modern pulse to Aveiro’s cultural landscape, the Sons em Trânsito (Sounds in Transit) festival takes place along Canal do Cojo, often centered at the historic Teatro Aveirense. Founded in 2002, Sons em Trânsito is a renowned music production company and festival organizer, known for bringing both Portuguese and international artists to Aveiro. The festival celebrates diverse genres, featuring musicians from across Portugal, Africa, and Latin America. Sons em Trânsito not only enriches Aveiro’s artistic heritage but also transforms the canal area into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange during festival events.
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.
