When I think of Portugal, a few things come to mind: seafood, port wine, beautiful architecture, and azulejo tiles!
The word “azulejos” stems from Arabic roots meaning “small polished stone” and dates back to the 13th century. Craftsmen originally cut antique azulejo tiles into simple geometric shapes, featuring neutral tones like blues and whites. The Age of Discoveries during the 15th – 18th centuries influenced these colors. Later on, artisans replaced the simple geometric shapes with more ornate decorations and introduced other colors, including yellows and greens.
Beautiful Azulejos in Obidos, Portugal
Azulejos tell stories of Portugal’s history, religion, and culture through their decorative means. You can see them decorating churches, monasteries, palaces, railway stations, restaurants, and private homes. Did you know people also use them extensively in interior decorating?
If you are visiting Portugal, or plan to, make sure to see the National Azulejo (Tile) Museum, São Bento Railway Station, and the Chapel of Souls, to name a few.
National Azulejo Museum (Lisbon)
The National Azulejo Museum in Lisbon is a must-visit site if you enjoy the craftsmanship of this tile style. Here, you can explore the evolution of azulejos from their early beginnings to contemporary designs.
São Bento Station. Photo by Rostyslav Savchyn on Unsplash.
Another architectural gem in Porto is São Bento Station, adorned with stunning azulejo panels depicting significant historical scenes. The station’s interior is filled with intricate tilework. Even if you don’t need a train ride, enter this train station just to look at the beautiful artwork and craftsmanship.
Capela das Almas in Porto. Photo by Dominik Kuhn on Unsplash.
The Capela das Almas, or Chapel of Souls, in Porto is yet another breathtaking site. Beautiful blue and white tiles cover the exterior, illustrating the lives of saints.
Want to Have a Piece at Home?
For those who want a piece of this beautiful art form at home, Casa Cubista has a beautiful dishware selection that offers a subtle nod to azulejos.
If you’re a jewelry lover and want to wear a piece of history, Atrio has a wide selection of antique tile replica jewelry.
Here is our interview with Elizabeth from Atrio.
We would love to hear from you. Share your comments.
Ilda
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Thanks! Have a wonderful trip. I am sure you will enjoy everything the country has to offer.
I love them! They are so colorful and playful.A such a beautiful place. Will be visiting November 2017. Cannot wait to smell the lemons see the flowers and shop shop shop till I drop.Thank you for your fantastic article
I have been a ritual magician for over 30 years. I have gotten to the point where all I do is protective magic. Each piece is charged with magical protective powers.
Thanks Barbara. Glad you enjoyed the post and gave us your feedback. We will be writing more posts on Portuguese pottery! Have a great weekend!
This was so interesting. I have always liked pottery from Portugal and I am aware of the beautiful tiles that come from there too. The jewelry is beautiful.