Traditional boatbuilders of the Aveiro region

About

The Moliceiro Boat is undoubtedly one of the main symbols of the Aveiro Region.

You must explore one of our region’s most cherished arts: traditional shipbuilding (which goes far beyond constructing Moliceiro Boats).
Is this something that interests you? Then we recommend visiting the Naval Shipyards in the Aveiro Region. While in the past, this art employed many professionals, there are currently only five master boatbuilders remaining.

António Esteves, Felisberto Amador, and Arménio Almeida (with shipyards in Pardilhó, Estarreja), as well as José Rito and Marco Silva (with shipyards in Torreira, Murtosa).

However, art is far from declining! On the contrary, in 2021, the Art of Naval Carpentry in the Aveiro Region was inscribed in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. In 2022, its candidacy was presented for inclusion in UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This recognition honours the artistry and ingenuity of these boatbuilders masters, providing yet another compelling reason to visit their shipyards.

Do you know what a “Pau-de-Pontos” is? Or a “cavilha”? They are two of the most essential elements in the shipbuilding of the Aveiro Region. Explore the shipyards and get to know them!

Allow yourself to be enchanted by the stories of passion for the art!