Azulejos, the vibrant, petite tiles characteristic of the Iberian Peninsula, have established Portugal’s artistic legacy and stand as enduring testaments to generations of skilled workmanship. Below are five notable locations where you can admire these tiles.
Azulejos , an artistic expression that has persisted throughout the ages
Etymology is always helpful in tracing the origins of a word, though certainty is often elusive. This holds true even when examining the etymology of azulejos , certain individuals believe that azul - blue in Spanish and Portuguese – subsequently underwent changes azulejo , despite the initial ones being yellow, green, and brown instead of blue. There are individuals who support an alternative perspective: the term originates from Arabic. al zulaycha , which means “small polished stone.” One thing is for sure: azulejos were born during the period when Muslims controlled the entire Iberian Peninsula, with Al-Andalus spanning from 711 to 1492, up until the conquest fell. Granada .
A method adopted from Spain
In the early 16 th In the 16th century, King Manuel I of Portugal was captivated by the azulejos He had only recently witnessed the opulence within the palaces of Seville and Zaragoza. Upon his return, he had his palace at Sintra , on the periphery of Lisbon, adorned with these tiny tiles, which remain visible even now. Following this period, the technique rapidly advanced within the nation. Facades of houses, churches Fountains, staircases… Since working with tiles requires significantly less time compared to using marble as seen in Greco-Roman mosaics, extensive areas can be adorned with these tiny tiles. Besides their visual appeal, they also provide protection from winter moisture and summer heat.
Where can one view the most stunning vistas? azulejos in Portugal?
Bent Station in Porto
From an external view, one would struggle to imagine the immense quantity of small tiles that compose the murals in the assembly hall. São Bento station Over 20,000 tiles have been put together to illustrate significant moments in the nation's past, starting from the year 13 th to the 15 th The fresco depicting the epic Battle of Arcos de Valdevez is particularly remarkable.
Porto-São Bento train station Praça de Almeida Garrett
4000-069 Porto
The Church of São Lourenço in Almancil
In Southern Portugal, at the region's center, Algarve The Church of Saint Lawrence in Almancil stands out as an impressive structure. Although its pristine white exterior appears modest, the inside is awe-inspiring. Everywhere you turn, there is an abundance of blue and white azulejos adorning the space. Dating back to 1730, scenes from the saint's life have been beautifully illustrated on the walls and ceiling, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
São Lourenço dos Matos
Rua da Igreja
8135-027 Almancil
The Queluz National Palace in Lisbon
In this 18 th In this century-old structure, the Corridor of Azulejos stands as a wonder. Similar to tapestries, the azulejo tiles adorn the walls beautifully. azulejo The panels, credited to ceramist Francisco Jorge da Costa, evoke the essence of the four seasons. Externally, the gardens dazzle with their water features and statues, alongside azulejos those even adorning the walls of a canal.
Palácio Nacional de Queluz
Largo Palácio de Queluz
2745-191 Queluz
The Tile Museum in Lisbon
The Convent of Madre de Deus, constructed in 1509, serves as the backdrop for Lisbon The Azulejo Museum is truly captivating. It explores the history of azulejos dating back to the 16th century. th The period from the century to today is showcased via approximately 10,000 exhibits. At the heart of the museum lies a central attraction: a fresco composed of 1,300 individual tiles. azulejos depicts Lisbon as it appeared in 1735, prior to the devastating earthquake of 1755 that altered the city’s landscape.
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Rua da Madre de Deus 4
1900-312 Lisboa
www.museudoazulejo.pt/
Aveiro's old railway station
Each nation appears to boast its own distinct 'Venice'. Portugal That would be Aveiro, located on the western coast below Porto, known for its canals and vibrant-hued vessels – the moliceiros In this delightful town, be sure to check out the historic railway station: freshly refurbished, its facade is stunning, adorned with splendid decorations. azulejos (1916), tinted records capturing the essence of urban life.
Antiga Estação de Aveiro Rua Dr João de Moura 2, Aveiro
3800-187 Aveiro
0 Comments