Praça do Doutor Joaquim de Melo Freitas is named in honor of Dr. Joaquim de Melo Freitas, a prominent figure in Aveiro's liberal history. He was a writer, orator, and publisher of several local periodicals, including "O Povo de Aveiro". His commitment to liberal ideas and his role in defending constitutional freedoms left a lasting legacy in the city. He was also instrumental in erecting the Obelisk of Liberty, a monument dedicated to the Mártires da Liberdade (Martyrs of Liberty) and to José Estêvão, a leading figure in Portugal’s liberal movement. This connection between the square and the liberal movement underscores the significance of Aveiro in the fight for constitutional reforms.
The square is located near Rua dos Mercadores, which translates to "Street of Merchants," a historically important commercial hub in Aveiro. Merchants, or mercadores, were crucial to the city’s economy, driving trade through Aveiro's port, which was central to its prosperity. The relationship between the square and Rua dos Mercadores is symbolic of Aveiro’s past as a thriving commercial city, which was also a breeding ground for liberal ideas, as the growing middle class supported constitutional reforms to secure political and economic rights.
In the Praça do Doutor Joaquim de Melo Freitas, the Monument to Liberty stands as a tribute to those who fought for liberal ideals during the turbulent times of the 19th century. The obelisk commemorates the sacrifices made by the Mártires da Liberdade, individuals who were executed for their involvement in the 1828 uprising against the absolutist regime of King Miguel I. The monument serves as a reminder of the city’s pivotal role in Portugal’s struggle for constitutional freedoms and the enduring spirit of liberalism in Aveiro.
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.
