Aveiro, known for its “ovos moles”, its lagoon (Ria) and beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, is often called the Portuguese Venice due to its canals and waterways crossing the city center.
The city is located on Portugal’s west coast, which gives it a mild climate with neither very hot summers nor very cold winters.
The first known charter of Aveiro dates back to August 4th, 1415.
Its geographic location allowed the development of key economic activities such as salt production, fishing, and maritime trade.
In the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the connection between the lagoon and the sea was blocked, causing economic decline and poor sanitary conditions due to stagnant waters.
In the early 19th century, the opening of the lagoon entrance led to a major period of development.
Today, Aveiro is an important urban center, especially in rail, port, university, and tourism sectors.