Nazaré, situated on the Portuguese west coast, is a locality with a deep connection to the Atlantic Ocean. Characterized by its fishing identity, it keeps alive the traditions and way of life that have shaped its history. It is a place where the power of nature and culture intertwine in a striking way.
The Sítio da Nazaré, an imposing promontory, offers broad perspectives over the village, the extensive beach, and the horizon. It is from this elevated point that one can observe the vastness of the Atlantic and Praia do Norte, world-renowned for its giant waves, a natural phenomenon that attracts attention and respect for its grandeur.
The local culture is visible in the presence of figures like the "Sete Saias" (Seven Skirts), women who, through their traditional attire, represent the heritage of fishing families and the resilience of the community. These figures are a living testament to the village's history and its connection with the sea and its ancestral customs.
Strolling along the Nazaré promenade allows one to observe the fishing activity, with the colorful boats and the art of drying fish in the sun, an ancient practice that is part of the local daily life and identity. Nazaré invites an experience where maritime history, popular traditions, and natural beauty harmonize.
Authentic flavors that tell the story of our land
In Nazaré, the proximity to the sea guarantees the freshness of the fish. It is common to find various types, such as sardines, sea bass, gilt-head bream, or snapper, simply prepared on the grill, enhancing the authentic taste of the sea. This dish reflects the traditional diet and the fishing community's intrinsic connection with marine resources.
This fish stew is an emblematic dish of Nazaré, standing out for its richness of flavors and aromas. Made with different types of fish from the coast – such as conger eel, monkfish, potatoes, and peppers – it is cooked in layers in a pot, incorporating the broth resulting from the ingredients themselves and a touch of spice. It represents the abundance of the Atlantic and the wisdom of ancient fishing recipes.
Dried fish is an ancient tradition in Nazaré, resulting from a preservation method that uses sun and wind drying on the beach. Species like horse mackerel, mackerel, or octopus are scaled, salted, and spread on stakes to dry. This process, which can still be observed today, gives the fish an intense and unique flavor, being a living testament to the local fishing culture and its art of making the most of what the sea offers.
Although appreciated along the entire Portuguese coast, Nazaré's Seafood Rice stands out for the freshness of its ingredients. It is a creamy and aromatic rice, prepared with a variety of fresh, locally caught seafood, such as shrimp, clams, cockles, and mussels, cooked in a rich broth that intensifies the taste of the sea. This dish celebrates the abundance of coastal products.
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