“Schist” is a type of crystalline metamorphic stone. It is easily split, creating a flat surface. For centuries, this “horizontal” stone became the ideal building material to create weatherproof, secure houses. Today, many original homes made of schist still stand and are remain occupied by the residents of the village.
Guests at Casa Arouquesa travel from around the region and the country to enjoy the renowned mouth-watering beef and traditional...
The Côa Valley, in central Portugal, is considered one of the most important rock art locations in the world. More than 70 sites can be found here, still in their original positions, displaying breath-taking engravings from prehistoric, protohistoric and historic times. In the heart of this culturally significant area is the Côa Museum.
At the heart of Aveiro is a river complete with gondolas (moliceiros) that evoke river travel of eras past, but provide entertainment for tourists in modern times. In the center of all this action is a hip little hotel that takes its name from the traditional boats, yet offers a modern design hotel experience.
Ovos moles are sweets, originating in the convents, made of egg yolks and sugar, wrapped in a thin wheat crust (the same dough used for “Hosts” in Catholic Masses). The sweets are molded into shapes symbolic of the Aveiro region, such as clams, mussels, fish, crabs, barrels, sea buoy, walnuts and chestnuts.
For those who love the artistry of urban landscapes, the city of Aveiro is a fantastic feast for the eyes. As you walk around the city center, you can’t help but notice an impressive collection of contemporary public art. These square-face, block-body sculptures are the works of Luis Queimadela.
Some of the best life experiences happen in some of the unlikeliest of places. This is most certainly true of...
Who would guess that Portugal has some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring spaces devoted to books? Porto is home to the most beautiful bookstore in the world, Livraria Lello. But, the University of Coimbra in Central Portugal is the location for one of the world’s grandest and unique libraries, the Biblioteca Joanina.









