The discreet presence of the Galicians in Aveiro

Abstract

Between 1835 and 1862, many Galicians passed through Aveiro, bound for several Portuguese towns and cities, or on their way to Latin America. Leaving relatives in Porto, Espinho and Estarreja, some of these “pilgrims of work” settled in Aveiro, left a (discreet) mark in toponymy, anthroponymy and in various economic activities, especially in the trade of salt, fishing, or ‘open door trading’. They eloquently demonstrate an excellent economic, social and cultural integration facilitated by common historical and linguistic origins, geographical proximity and cultural identity. In fact, “all of Portugal is more or less Galician.” This familiarity has reached our days, despite the “asymmetrical character of the relations between Portugal and Galicia”, until a few decades ago.