Gazete Azulejos
We are dedicated to promoting and preserving the art of traditional Portuguese tile painting.
A Journey into the Vibrant World of Portuguese Tiles with Gazete Azulejos
Gazete Azulejos takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of Portuguese tiles, revealing more than just small glazed ceramics. Originating in the late 15th century, these tiles only began to adorn facades en masse in the 19th century, transforming Portugal’s appearance from neutral tones to a vibrant, colorful expression. This shift became a defining element of Portugal’s identity. Gazete Azulejos plays a crucial role in preserving and celebrating the authentic artistry of Portuguese tile painting, heritage that has shaped the identity of the country.
Crafted by skilled hands in numerous factories across the country, these tiles were once a thriving industry. Unfortunately, the demand decline has led to the closure of nearly all these factories today. Many of their structures have vanished or fallen into ruins, underscoring the significance of preserving these tiles for posterity.
Drawing inspiration from the intricate patterns of Holland, Spain, or England, and showcasing an infinite array of designs and colors, these tiles stand as a testament to their own inherent beauty, establishing themselves as one of the most captivating heritages.
But some Portuguese tiles are disappearing…
During building reconstructions, a considerable number of Portuguese tiles are either removed or stolen for souvenir sales, resulting in the permanent loss of numerous unique patterns. In response, we have initiated three side projects to counteract this issue:
Os Azulejos do Porto
We are creating a non-profit catalogue documenting all the patterns adorning the facades of Porto, our base of operations. This project also involves crucial research on these tiles, including the factories responsible for their production, techniques employed, influences, and more.
Gazete Azulejos
At our tile painting studio, we hand-paint replicas of beautiful Portuguese tiles using traditional methods. Our goal is to preserve these cultural treasures from being forgotten. Each piece reflects the rich history and craftsmanship of Portuguese tile art. By doing this, we aim to keep this unique art form alive for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Tile Painting Workshops
We conduct workshops to safeguard this craft from disappearing, teaching the traditional techniques used in painting original tiles. Our aim is to share the history of facade tiles, ensuring that their significant cultural value is widely appreciated and understood.
Buying in our shop or participating in our workshops you will be supporting “Os Azulejos do Porto“.