Culture of Aveiro. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Diversify your vacation in Aveiro by visiting iconic historical landmarks and museums. One of the most visited by tourists is the Museu Vista Alegre, which introduces visitors to the history of the Vista Alegre Porcelain Factory located near the city. The opening of this factory took place over 200 years ago, and it is still functioning.

The museum has a very interesting collection of antique porcelain and decorative accessories. You will also have the opportunity to see amazingly beautiful glass products and artistic sketches that were used to decorate porcelain. Most of the museum’s exhibits were made in the second half of the 19th century. One of the halls displays a large collection of old photographs taken at the factory.

One of the city’s main historical symbols is the Convento de Jesus Monastery. This incredibly beautiful architectural monument was erected at the end of the 15th century. The monastery features a spectacular interior design. Presently, part of the historic building is converted into a museum. This is a highly revered place for locals, as the tomb of the Princess Saint Joan is located here. The main hall decorated with skillful wood-carved and gilded elements is one of the most beautiful in the monastery. A rich collection of ancient sculptures and works of art, an old organ, and many other historical values are stored within the monastery walls. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Several more wonderful historic churches have been preserved in the city. One of the most beautiful is the Igreja da Misericórdia de Aveiro. It is located in the very heart of the city, near the old Town Hall building. This church managed to retain its original decoration. Its facade is finished with traditional blue azulejos tiles. The main decoration of the facade is the old sculpture of the Mother of God, and ornamental elements with royal symbols can be seen above the main entrance. Inside, the walls of the church are also decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles, which were created by local craftsmen back in the 16th century. Pay special attention to the beautiful vaulted ceiling, as well as an ancient altar made of stone.

A unique architectural monument is Se Catedral de Aveiro dating back to 1423. The townspeople consider this church to be the main one in the city. Actually, it is the only surviving part of the ancient monastery. In the 15th century, a big fire destroyed almost the entire territory of the monastery. Today, the still-standing temple is attractive with its amazing combination of various architectural styles. Over the hundreds of years, the church has been repeatedly restored, and its general image harmoniously combines elements of different eras. After exploring the interior of the church, take a stroll through its Gothic courtyard.

The old Capela de Sao Goncalinho is another beautiful architectural monument. It is quite small and is located in one of the historic streets of Aveiro. The main value of the chapel is its perfectly preserved interior decoration. Here you can see magnificent ancient sculptures and fragments of gilding decoration, as well as very beautiful wooden furniture and statues of saints. The chapel has remained virtually unchanged since the 18th century when it was built.

One of the city’s most amazing architectural landmarks is Zodíaco na Calçada Portuguesa. This mansion’s facade is almost entirely decorated with antique blue and white tiles, which make the building look really impressive. A beautiful stone-paved old square has been preserved in front of the building. Here you can also see interesting elements of colored stone.

Among the most unusual local museums is the Livraria Gigões & Anantes, which acquaints its visitors with works of contemporary art. It houses a gallery full of original contemporary paintings and themed installations. The museum shares the same building with a popular bookstore where all kinds of souvenirs are sold besides literature.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the original Museu de Arte Nova dedicated to the traditional local arts. It occupies a beautiful old villa where halls with exhibits are located on the second floor. Here you will find antique porcelain and clay items, as well as many other interesting antiques. A cozy cafe serves visitors on the first floor of the historic building.