Art Xávega at Praia da Tocha

Arte-Xávega, artisanal fishing also known as "drag" fishing, is still a reality in Praia da Tocha.

Arte-xávega dates back to the 19th century, when fishermen went out by boat to cast their nets into the sea. The nets measured about 300 meters, reaching in some cases 600 (in four-oar boats). The nets were made of flax, which made them heavier, requiring a lot of people to carry them to the boat and, in particular, to pull them to land. The xávega demanded a great collective effort.

Returning from work, the nets were taken from the sea to the coast with the help of teams of oxen, as well as a multitude of men and women who collaborated in this difficult task of extending and pulling the net along the beach and removing all the fish from it.

Even today you can witness this art being performed in its original form!