Azulejo (from the Arabic al-zillīj, الزليج) is a form of Spanish and Portuguese painted tin-glazed ceramic tilework. We can trace back the history of Azulejo production back to the 13th century. Most of the Southern parts of Portugal were under Moorish rule, similar to the area of Southern Spain, Andalusia. The Moors established their commands in Portugal, introducing the production of tiles to embellish their houses and Alcazaba. Looking at the semantics, Azulejo originates from the Arabic word ”az-zulayj, which might mean “Small polished stone”. However, many believe that the name comes from the Portuguese Azul, which means “light blue”.

Another great story behind the Azulejos in Porto, or better, the imported culture, comes from the traditions that the Moors took with it. At the start of the production in Portugal, the tiles were forbidden to portray human subjects, faces and silhouettes. This was because of Islamic law, which is why most of the first tiles only depict geometric figures and floral designs.

What are traditional Portuguese azulejos?

There are many ways the conventional Portugues azulejos evolved in the years. The typical azulejos are depicted tiles places to embellish private residences, public spaces, Governative and financial buildings, Churches and even streets.

It’s common to associate azulejos with Portugal; however, it is easy to find tiles in different variations all over Europe. The reason behind that is that azulejos or ceramic tiles are often used to protect buildings from agents. The history behind the azulejos is fascinating, similar, and connected with the rest of the Hibernian peninsula.

While traversing Portugal, you can find Portuguese Azulejos everywhere, from shops, train stations, beautiful cathedrals, viewpoints and other places.