Located in the Aveiro district, next to the Ria and the Atlantic Ocean, the municipality of Ílhavo is a territory profoundly shaped by the sea. Its identity is intrinsically linked to fishing activity and the history of cod fishing, a heritage that manifests itself in every corner of the territory.
This municipality offers a diverse landscape, where the channels of the Ria de Aveiro intertwine with coastal areas, creating unique ecosystems. Life in Ílhavo flows to the rhythm of the tides and the vessels that historically sailed the oceans, from the traditional moliceiros and mercantéis of the Ria, to the ships of the cod fleet.
The local culture is rich and preserves maritime traditions, visible in the daily lives of its communities and in the artistic expressions that stem from them. Exploring Ílhavo reveals a legacy of resilience and connection to the ocean, a distinctive trait that characterizes this municipality and its people, inviting discovery of its authenticity and history.
Authentic flavors that tell the story of our land
Traditional dish reflecting the abundance of eels in the Ria de Aveiro, adjacent to Ílhavo. It is a rich and flavorful stew, prepared with fresh eels from the estuary, potatoes, and a variety of vegetables, cooked over low heat to enhance all the flavors. It is directly linked to the local fishing life and the richness of its estuaries.
One of the most emblematic dishes of Portuguese gastronomy, with a strong presence in Ílhavo due to its centuries-old connection to cod. It consists of flakes of boiled cod, chickpeas, potatoes, and cabbage, seasoned with olive oil and garlic. This dish represents the simplicity and robustness of traditional cuisine, which values the main product – cod – in all its aspects, a heritage of Ílhavo's fishermen.
Traditional and characteristic sweet from Ílhavo, originating from cultural and commercial exchanges between cod fishing ports. It is a simple, yet very flavorful cookie, with a crispy texture and a delicate taste. Its artisanal preparation and history directly link it to the maritime and commercial past of the municipality, being a popular delight.
