Traditional Arte Xávega fishing returns to Meia Praia

A centuries-old fishing tradition has returned to Meia Praia in Lagos, with dozens of residents, visitors and local officials gathering to witness the first Arte Xávega launch since the practice was revived as a cultural heritage initiative.

The event took place on Saturday, June 6 on the beach near the Bairro 1.º de Maio neighbourhood and marked the beginning of a programme aimed at preserving one of Lagos’ most distinctive maritime traditions.

The revival follows the signing of a cooperation agreement in March between Lagos municipal council and the Associação de Moradores 1.º de Maio, establishing the conditions for the continuation of Arte Xávega as an occasional cultural demonstration rather than a commercial fishing activity.

The first event carried special significance as it was dedicated to the memory of José da Glória Santos, widely known as Zé Bala, who died at the end of 2025. Regarded by many as the foremost guardian of the tradition, he spent decades working to ensure its survival and became one of its most recognisable figures.

Mayor Hugo Pereira attended the event and highlighted the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding local intangible cultural heritage.

“Arte Xávega at Meia Praia forms part of a set of practices and knowledge that define the identity of Lagos and its people and must be protected, not only as heritage but as a living memory for future generations,” he said.

Further demonstrations are planned throughout the year and will be announced through the municipality’s communication channels.

According to the council, Arte Xávega is a traditional fishing method in which a net is cast into the sea from a boat while two ropes remain connected to the shore. Once the net has been deployed, teams of participants pull it back to land by hand, a process that can take several hours.

Historically, the practice played an important social and economic role within local fishing communities, bringing together people of different ages and professions in a cooperative effort. Beyond its practical function, it fostered strong community bonds and provided participants with a share of the day’s catch.

Today, while no longer carried out as a commercial activity, Arte Xávega remains an important symbol of Lagos’ maritime heritage and a reminder of the traditions that shaped life along the Algarve coast.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.