The Ca n’Hort canal was also known as Palau throughout the 13th century. From the 15th century onwards, it became distinguished as the Ca n’Hort canal (1440) and later as the n’Hort canal above the mills. It was most likely one of the earliest canals to be built, as it ensured a water supply to the monastery of Sant Esteve.

During the Middle Ages, both canals were also known by other names, including Mill Canal, Canat Vell Canal (1337), Palaus canals (1337), Palencs (1263) and Prestinyer Canal (1279). However, the name that became most widespread during the Early Modern period was Rieria Veteris (1279), or Old Stream (Riera Vella).