In this workshop, not only did we paint a Moorish-style aresta tile – we made a second one with clay, which I got to take home too. Here’s what happened at this unique tile-painting (and making) workshop in Sintra, Lisbon’s most popular day trip destination.

Read next… Lisbon’s best day trip: Sintra 1 or 2-day itinerary

First, a little explainer: Portugal’s tile history & tile-making techniques

There are three main traditional techniques to make tiles – dry cord, edge, and majolica. Most of the tiles you see in Portugal will be the last one, majolica. So, you can imagine how excited I was to join a Portuguese tile-painting workshop focused on the “aresta” or edge technique. 

Back in 1498 Portugal’s king took a trip to Seville where he saw beautiful Moorish tiles decorating the city. King D. Manuel I liked what he saw and decided to bring beautiful tiles to Portugal too. He made an order for the National Palace in Sintra (close to where this workshop is held). After this, churches and noble families started ordering tiles for their buildings too. 

Read next… The best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve

Dry cord or corda seca

The oldest Moorish technique is dry cord or corda seca, invented in the 10th century in what’s now Spain, but was then controlled by the Moors. A geometric pattern would be outlined with a mix of oil or fat and manganese oxide. As oil and water don’t mix, when the coloured glazes were added they would remain separate when being fired.

Edge or aresta

Later, the Moorish developed the aresta or edge technique in the late 15th century. This is essentially making tiles with textured edges or tiny borders or ridges that stop the colours from mixing. The clay is pressed into a plaster mold to create the edges, and after drying is painted by hand.

Majolicá

The third and final technique is majolica, which appeared in the early 16th century in Portugal. This is a flat tile dipped in white glaze, then you paint directly onto the surface. Most of the early majolica tiles were handpainted, but from the early 20th century semi-industrial tiles using a stencil technique to speed up the process began covering buildings in Lisbon and Porto.

Making our own aresta tile with clay

Estudio Lazuli’s tile studio in Sintra is a bit of an Aladdin’s cave. Taking over the ground level of a house, owner Aldina has made a creative space filled with antiques, pots of paint, ceramics, pottery wheels and more. Our group of three – two Portuguese locals and myself – were sat around a table with Aldina, who gave us an introduction to this tile technique and showed us the special moulds she’d created. 

There were maybe a dozen moulds to choose from. Both more classic Moorish styles with intricate geometric patterns that mimic some of the zellige style (hand-cut mosaics), and more organic and flowy ridged tile designs with an art nouveau feel.

I got to choose one of the moulds to form my own “Hispano-Moorish” or “Hispano-Arabic” edge tile, and was handed a chunk of clay to get to work. After rolling it out into a thinner sheet, you lay it out over the mould and hand press it to get every ridge and groove from the plaster mould. 

Read next… Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal

Painting a Moorish-style tile in Lisbon

Since it would take many days for the clay tile to dry, ready to be fired, Aldina let us choose a pre-baked one she had prepared earlier so we had something ready to paint that day. I decided on a more traditional Moorish pattern but I went for bright and modern colours. 

The central table was filled with glazes in at least a dozen colours – this was the hard part, choosing the colour scheme. Aldina showed us how to apply the paint using a loaded brush and how to work the colour to avoid any streaks or undesired marks. 

The process of painting this type of tile is fairly straightforward and as relaxing as meditation. I know some people worry about needing artistic talent for a tile-painting workshop, but I think even the less artistically inclined would have a blast painting their own tile this way.

If we made any mistakes, Aldina had some tricks to fix spills or errors before the tiles went to be baked. Once we were done, we added our initials to the back of the tiles, waved goodbye and returned to the world.

Now, the tiles needed time to dry and bake. Aldina emailed us as soon as our masterpieces were ready, and since I live in Lisbon I went to collect the two myself – though I’m sure she can arrange postage or a courier to deliver it to your hotel or home address.

Need to know

• What: Hispano-Moresque tile-making and painting workshop
• Duration: 90-minutes up to two hours
• Where: Sintra, 500m (0.3 mile) from the train station

Good to know: Aldina lived in Germany for a long time too, so she speaks fluent Portuguese, German and English.

That’s what it was like to paint a tile in Sintra – you can find more tile-painting workshops in my article.

Planning a trip to Portugal? I can help! Find out more about my Portugal travel calls here.

Keep reading…

• Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal
• Where to shop Portuguese ceramics by weight (cerâmica ao kilo) & pottery outlets
• Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Lisbon and Lagos, Algarve
• The best pastel de nata cooking classes in Lisbon and Porto
• Best vintage and second-hand shops in Lisbon
• Local’s Guide to Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s Famous Flea Market
• Fall in Portugal: 8 places to visit this autumn

The post I did this unique Moorish tile-painting workshop in Sintra appeared first on Olá Daniela.

If you’re visiting Portugal – or live here – you may have an interest in a tile painting workshop or class where you’ll learn more about Portugal’s tile heritage, and take one home as a souvenir. Tile-painting workshops are quite popular, for good reason. A tile painting class is a hands-on way to learn more while making a unique treasure to take home with you.

No time to read the whole article? No worries

My top picks for Lisbon –  This two-hour Hispanic Moorish Tile Workshop in Sintra, or a two-hour class at Art of Azulejo in Marvila (Wed & Sun). Or, if your schedule doesn’t allow time for tiles to bake overnight, this same-day tile design workshop is popular.

My top pick for Porto –  I did this two-hour class at Gazete Azulejos, and I love that their workshops support their non-profit project catologuing Porto’s unique tile patterns.

My top pick for Algarve –  Book this two-hour tile painting workshop

Lisbon’s love affair with tiles dates back to the 15th century with the Moors. Over the years it evolved, incorporating influences from the Baroque period through to geometric patterns. While the days of covering a whole building in hand-painted tiles are behind, azulejos continue to be an integral part of the architectural landscape of Lisbon, Porto and other established cities or towns in Portugal.

Warning! Do not buy tiles or azulejos at a flea market – they are likely stolen from buildings and can never be replaced. Instead of supporting stolen heritage, buy tiles from artisans or make-your-own with one of these tile painting workshops!

How to choose a tile-painting workshop

Tile-painting workshops offer a chance to delve into the depths of this ancient craft with the guidance of skilled artisans. All tile painting classes are different, so I’ve scoured the country to find every tile-painting workshop – and tile-focused tours. I’ve split the article into simple two-hour tile-painting workshops, intensive tile-making courses, family-friendly workshops, and a few alternatives (wine tasting in an insane historic palace? Hello!)

When choosing a workshop think about the style of tile you want to leave with. Some offer freestyle tile painting workshops where you can go wild and express your creativity, others do traditional stencils with no creativity required. The more intensive ones will show you how to mix pigments, while the shorter ones are just for fun.

Simple, two-hour tile-painting workshops

This is the most common format, so most tile ateliers offer this type of workshop. If you’re keen to learn a little bit about tiles, the process, history and take home two homemade souvenirs from your time in Portugal, this is the style of tile workshop for you.

Some run stencil workshops, where you work with the semi-industrial techniques you’ll see across Lisbon and Porto, while others offer free-hand painting.

Lisbon tile-painting classes

• Estudio Lazuli close to Sintra train station offers a really awesome two-hour Hispanic Moorish Tile Workshop. This workshop is extra cool as you’ll actually create a 3D Moorish clay tile in a mold, then paint a dried one with colourful glazes. I’ve done this class myself and it is a really fun and unique experience. (You can read about my experience here.)
• Near the National Tile Museum, the Art of Azulejo is a top-rated studio where you’ll paint two tiles while learning about tile history (Wednesdays & Sundays).
• Cerâmica S.Vicente near Alfama run two-hour or 3.3-hour tile-painting workshops (with drinks!)
• Loja dos Descobrimentos in Alfama offer tile-painting classes. Just email them.
• Casa do Azulejo in Benfica is a cute local studio in Lisbon with short or intensive courses. Good for those keen to go beyond a simple class.
• VisitMylisbon run workshops close to the National Tile Museum too.

Don’t have time to wait for the tiles to bake overnight? For something different, Azulejos’design offer a tile design workshop. You draw your pattern on paper and it gets thermally transferred to a ceramic tile that’s ready to take with you on the same day.

Have all day in Lisbon?  Book this top-rated private tile tour includes a visit to the National Museum of Tiles and to my favourite artisan tile factory in Azeitão.

Related blog: I did this unique Moorish tile-painting workshop in Sintra

Porto tile-painting workshops

• I’ve done the two-hour class at Gazete Azulejos in Bonfim and it’s fantastic. You paint two tiles with (or without) the stencil technique, and they will be ready for collection between 4-5pm the next day. Beyond tile-painting workshops, owners Alba and Marisa research, share and preserve the history of Portuguese tile making in Porto. Workshops support their non-profit digital archive called Os Azulejos do Porto. Very cool!
• Tiles AND cocktails? Sign up to this class with (a different) Daniela at Boiler Co-Work Studio.
• Domus Arte run two-hour tile-painting workshops.
• A local artist runs tile-painting workshops in one of Porto’s most beautiful gardens.
• Agostinha, a ceramics studio in Porto that offers tile painting classes. 

Love tiles and history? This three-hour “Tiles of Porto” walking tour covers both as you explore the cultural heritage of Portugal’s second-largest city. Book the Porto tile tour here.

Algarve tile-painting workshops

• AlgarvianRoots offers a simple two-hour tile painting workshop, or you can join their full-day experience, which combines nature, gastronomy and a tile painting workshop.
• In Olhão, in the west, you can join this two-hour mosaic tile class at MosaicOlhão, and create your own artwork souvenir.
• Arti Arte Azulejar in Ferragudo fishing village offers tile-painting workshops with classes in both Portuguese and English. 
• This tile-painting workshop in Silves might include pastries and you can book online.
• Monte da Ribeira offers a three-hour tile painting class in São Brás de Alportel.

Intensive tile workshops

Casa do Azulejo in Lisbon is one of the few spots I’ve found that offers both beginner tile painting workshops and more intensive specialty workshops, like a 60-hour complete tile course. If you’re serious about tiles, this might be the place to take your love deeper than a two-hour workshop. 

Also in Lisbon, Mariana Sampaio Studio also offer a range of six-hour long workshops covering a single style each time. 

Read next: Best tiles in Porto: Where to find Porto’s most beautiful azulejos

Planning a trip to Portugal? I can help! Book a one-on-one video call and get custom help organising your perfect Portugal itinerary, filled with artisan finds, fantastic restaurants, and the best destinations. I can connect you with local artisans and suggest the best workshops. Find out more about my Portugal travel planning service here.

For an immersive tile-painting experience

If you want to go deep, like really deep on tiles, I found this special experience – a private 1-day experience that’s ALL about azulejos.

You’ll visit the beloved National Tile Museum, set within a 16th-century monastery, to explore its collection of tiles from the 15th century until the present. The highlights are the gilded baroque church and the mammoth tile panel that depicts Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake that destroyed most of the city. You’ll cross the river south to Azeitão, a cute town where you’ll visit a palace and winery filled with historic tiled panels. Of course, you’ll taste wine too. Finally, visit a small tile factory where you’ll see artisans make and decorate tiles, then join a workshop to make one of your own!

Read next… Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal

Tile workshops for families

Let the kids get creative with tiles and paint when you book a private workshop designed just for them through Lisbon For Kids. You can choose to meet at the tile museum or at their workshop in Benfica.

For supplies and alternative ceramic workshops

Ceramista, located in Lisbon, Porto and Oeiras (near Lisbon), offers workshops. I get a very local vibe and think these workshops will be held in Portuguese – so if you’re learning the language, this could be a chance to immerse yourself.

Ceramista is also a supplier of tools, clay and ceramic goods. Beyond tile-painting you can join workshops to learn pottery.

For tiles and history (and wine)

This 1-day tile workshop in Lisbon is a full-day experience that combines tiles with history and wine tasting. You venture south of Lisbon, explore the beautiful Palmela Castle, visit a wine cellar for a tasting of local wine and one of my favourite Portuguese cheeses. Then you explore a historic vineyard palace filled with incredible tiles. After lunch you bop over to a small tile artisan that still manufactures and hand paints azulejos using old methods. You’ll learn about the different methods and history. While this day trip doesn’t include a painting workshop, I’m sure you could request it. 

That’s the list! If you love tiles, check out my photo-heavy #tileoftheday blogs and read about Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal

Planning a trip to Portugal? I can help! Find out more about my Portugal travel calls here.

Keep reading…

• Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal
• I did this unique Moorish tile-painting workshop in Sintra
• Where to shop Portuguese ceramics by weight (cerâmica ao kilo) & pottery outlets
• Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Lisbon and Lagos, Algarve
• The best pastel de nata cooking classes in Lisbon and Porto
• Best vintage and second-hand shops in Lisbon
• Local’s Guide to Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s Famous Flea Market

The post The best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Hand-painted tiles adorn the facades of buildings, palaces, and churches, some dating back centuries with many narrating stories of Portugal’s past with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Azulejos are really one of Portugal’s most important artistic treasures.

One thing friends often comment when they arrive in Portugal is “wow, the tiles are truly everywhere”, and indeed you’ll find incredible hand-painted azulejos and tiles everywhere in big cities, but there are a handful of extra special places in Porto worth seeking out. 

When it comes to sightseeing, you can’t skip out Porto city’s famous azulejo-clad landmarks, from the stunning São Bento Train Station with its 20,000-tile entrance, to the blue-hued Chapel of Souls. 

Below you’ll find a complete guide to Porto’s best azulejos, from hidden treasures tucked away to breathtaking azulejo-covered buildings that might just take your breath away (as cliche as that sounds) with their beauty as you turn the corner. From the buzzing streets of Ribeira to the inside of the Sé Cathedral, let’s look at how tiles bring together past and present of Porto and its culture.

This guide includes details on where to find these tiled buildings, plus a map and details on tile-painting workshops.

I’m a Portugal-based tile lover and I’ve shared some deeper tile photo blogs about a handful of the destinations mentioned below. Check them out to see more photos! 

Read next:The best tile painting workshops in Porto

Why are there so many azulejo tiles in Porto?

Azulejo is the Portuguese (and Spanish) word for glazed ceramic tile. While the history of tiles in Portugal dates back hundreds of years, tiles really had their golden period in the mid 19th to early 20th century. During this time, the art of tiles became popular and a lot of Porto’s old churches received a “modern” update with hand-painted tiled facades designed and executed by painters and artists.

The invention of layered stencils then allowed local factories to produce tiles faster with a stamping technique. This made it cheaper, and suddenly more people were able to afford this form of cultural expression and covered their houses with them. Tiles not only look beautiful – they help keep the damp out of houses, making homes warmer in winter.

Like a fashion trend of sorts, buildings in Portugal’s major cities, like Lisbon and Porto, are now covered in colourful azulejo tiles. I love them because they make the streets here so fun, bright and unique. But it’s not all rosy. Porto’s century-old tiles have been protected by law since 2017, but many are still at risk during renovations. I’ve been a long-time follower of Os Azulejos do Porto, a non-profit project tracking the heritage and history of Porto’s tiles and there’s often sad news on Instagram regarding lost heritage. 

Don’t buy antique tiles. Instead join a tile-painting workshop and create your own take-home souvenir. Join this local artist for a tile-painting workshop in one of Porto’s most beautiful gardens, or have fun with this tiles and cocktails class.

You’ll find beautiful tiles all across the city, but below I’ve highlighted the very best, unique azulejo tiles in Porto.

Why are Portuguese tiles often blue?

It’s said that Europeans fell in love with the fine elegance of Chinese porcelain, which was often white with blue. To create this colour artists needed an ingredient not found in Europe (at the time), and with rarity comes exclusivity – making blue tiles a symbol of wealth. The Dutch started making blue-and-white tiles in the 17th century, and the Portuguese loved them so much they imported plenty to decorate buildings. The rest? History.

Read next: How to spend 48 hours in Porto

➼ Wish someone could shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help cut through the noise and plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

The best azulejo tiles in Porto

Igreja do Carmo

Porto has many beautiful tile-covered churches, and Igreja do Carmo is definitely one of the most beautiful. Better yet, it’s super close to popular Porto tourist stops like the Clérigos Bell Tower and Livraria Lello bookshop.

The 18th-century Baroque church only received its glorious blue-and-white tiled side in 1910. The huge multi-storey work was designed by Silvestre Silvestri and painted by Carlos Branco, and it depicts the founding of Carmelites religious order on Mount Carmel.

Curiously, Carmo is actually a twin church with the next door Igreja do Carmelita. The two sit side-by-side, connected by a tiny house that’s only a metre or so wide. 

Location: Rua do Carmo

Porto’s Cathedral / Sé do Porto

The Sé do Porto is more than 900 years old. Works on Porto’s huge cathedral started in 1110 and as you can imagine the imposing stone building has gone through many changes in that time. You’ll spy Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque architecture and influence, and – of course – stunning tiles.

The blue-and-white tile scenes inside the Gothic cloisters were painted by Valentim de Almeida between 1729 and 1731, depicting the life of the Virgin Mary and Ovid’s Metamorphoses. On the upstairs terrace of the Sé do Porto there’s also these huge tile panels by António Vidal.

Read the full story & see more photos

Location: Terreiro da Sé

São Bento Station

If you make it to Porto by train, lucky you. If you arrive by plane, car foot or bicycle – it’s still essential to stop by the entrance hall of the city’s central station, Estação de São Bento.

Lining the grand hall are 20,000 insane pictorial tiles. Here every tile tells a story, and it’s not the usual religious illustrations. Back in 1900, Portugal’s King Carlos I laid the first stone of this French Beaux-Arts building where an old convent once stood. The real drawcard is the thousands of azulejos, hand-painted over a period of 11 years by artist Jorge Colaço.

Usually large figurative azulejo works like these blue and coloured panels are found in churches, but this isn’t a church. Instead of religious scenes showing various do-good saints, the panels represent Portugal’s history and stories.

Read the full story & see more photos

Location: Praça de Almeida Garrett

Love tiles and history? This three-hour “Tiles of Porto” walking tour covers both as you explore the cultural heritage of Portugal’s second-largest city. Book it here.

Igreja dos Congregados

When you step outside the doors of São Bento Train Station, look to your right and you’ll see Igreja dos Congregados – also sometimes known as Igreja de Santo Antonio dos Congregados (the Church of St. Anthony’s Congregation).

The “Church of St. Anthony’s Congregation” was completed in 1680, but as the story goes it’s seen many changes throughout history. Artist Jorge Colaço, who was responsible for the station’s 20,000 azulejo tiles, also painted this facade. I’m a fan of the pop of yellow!

Curiously, the church was used for hospital and military equipment storage during the 1832-35 siege. 

Address: Rua de Sá da Bandeira 11

Location:

Chapel of Souls / Capela das Almas 

C​​apela das Almas de Catarina or Capela de Santa Catarina, is an 18th-century chapel covered with a casual 15,947 tiles. This is one of Porto’s most magnificent and most photographed attractions and the blue-hued chapel is conveniently located along Rua de Santa Catarina, the city’s pedestrian mall in Santo Ildefonso neighbourhood. 

It’s just around the corner from the Mercado do Bolhão, Porto’s must-visit fresh marketplace.

The name Capela das Almas means Soul’s Chapel, and while the building itself is some 200 years old the tiles were only added in 1929. Artist Eduardo Leite designed the illustrations and they were made in Lisbon by Fábrica de Cerâmica Viúva Lamego, which is still a working tile factory.

Read the full story & see more photos

Location: Cnr Rua Catarina & Rua de Fernandes Tomás

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

The Church of Saint Ildefonso always sneaks up on me. You pop around the corner and suddenly this 18th-century church with its staircase comes out of nowhere. You’ll find it close to Rua Catarina, making it easy to combine with Chapel of Souls. 

This church was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, along with the São Bento Railway Station. The Baroque-style building was constructed in 1739, but like other churches in the city, the tiles were added later. 

Much later. In this case, the 11,000 azulejo tiles adorning the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso were only added in 1932. Portuguese painter Jorge Colaço was behind the entire façade, and he was responsible for the train station too. 

As you might expect from a church, these tiles show the life of St. Ildefonso along with stories from the Eucharist.

Tile tip: Don’t buy tiles or azulejos at a flea market – they are quite likely stolen from the streets. Instead, buy tiles from living artisans or make-your-own with a tile painting workshop.

Porto’s Downtown Neighbourhoods

Walking around Porto is like an open-air museum. I find the city to be extremely walkable (despite the odd hill or staircase) and I suggest just getting lost. You’ve got Google maps to find your way back home, so just follow your camera to wherever the next pretty tile takes you. After a dozen or so visits to Porto, I still find myself exploring new alleyways and streets, finding new tile designs and patterns.

Did you know Lisbon has different tiles to Porto? There’s not a huge overlap because both cities had their own tile-painting factories. Porto once had eight huge tile-making factories. One major difference I see is 3D ceramic tiles – Porto has a range of three-dimensional tiles while Lisbon’s are all flat.

Banco de Materiais / Bank of Materials

Close to Igreja do Carmo you’ll find Banco de Materiais – the Bank of Materials. This museum (of sorts) was created by Porto’s City Hall back in 2010. The idea was to preserve, show off, and raise the profile of Porto’s historic building elements – mostly tiles, ceramic edges, and decorative pieces like iron railings.

It gives tourists the chance to admire and appreciate Porto’s cultural heritage, thus raising the value of historic Porto. And it gives building owners the chance to restore their buildings, where beautiful azulejos tiles have chipped off or been destroyed by the elements.

Yes, it’s a bank where building owners can request to access tiles etc if they have a building that needs some. Consultations (and materials) are often free, but I’ve heard it can take a while.

If you’re a history or tile fan, drop in for 10 minutes. There’s not much information but the tiles and materials are beautifully displayed for you to oggle at.

Location: Praça de Carlos Alberto

Casa da Música

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A little out of the way, I’ve not yet been to the Casa da Música as I’ve been waiting for a concert to collide with when I’m there. This performing arts space was built in 2005 and fuses modern design with cultural heritage. It’s said the Dutch architect, Rem Koolhaas, wanted something that merged Dutch and Portuguese culture, hence why he choose to use old-style blue-and-white illustrated tiles in the contemporary building.

If you take guided tour of the building they’ll show you the VIP room, which is covered in stunning tiles. There’s an entry fee, but the Porto Card gets you a 50% discount.

Location: Avenida da Boavista

Map of Porto tiles

Want someone to show you around? This three-hour “Tiles of Porto” walking tour covers both as you explore the cultural heritage of Portugal’s second largest city. Book it here.

Here’s a map so you can see where the best tile spots in Porto are. Use this to design your trail or find tiles close to points of interest.

Where are the best places to buy azulejo tiles in Porto?

As I mentioned above, if you want to shop for ceramic tiles in Porto be sure to know what you’re buying. Unfortunately tiles do get stolen from buildings and even monuments, and you don’t want to fuel demand. The best way to avoid taking home irreplaceable heritage is to buy new tiles made by living artists.

Here are some ideas, otherwise you could paint your own souvenir tile.

• Prometeu Artesanato: This store has both traditional replica tiles and modern, creative tiles all painted in-house. Better yet, they have small hand-painted fridge tiles, earrings and other creative applications. Great for gifts!
• Fleurdelis: This small artisan makes true reproductions of old tiles.
• Azulima: The showroom of an azulejo factory where you’ll find old-style hand-painted scenes to modern colours and even concrete floor tiles.
• Zinda: A small independent boutique that sells hand-made ceramics and tiles made by artist Adosinda Pereira. It’s super cute and right in the heart of the city.
• Crivart: This small gift store has coloured, illustrated and stamped azulejos as coasters and fridge magnets, a perfect souvenir.

Top tile painting workshops in Porto

I encourage anyone visiting Portugal to join a tile-painting workshop. Not only is it a chance to make a cool souvenir but you’ll learn more about Portugal’s tile heritage at the same time. 

A tile workshop is also an ethical way to create your own souvenir – please don’t purchase any antique tiles while in Portugal. This is taking irreplaceable heritage from the streets, and only encourages the degradation of tiled buildings. 

I’ve rounded up a bunch of the best tile painting workships in Porto below.

• Tiles AND cocktails? Sign up to this class with (a different) Daniela at Boiler Co-Work Studio.
• Domus Arte run two-hour tile-painting workshops.
• A local artist runs tile-painting workshops in one of Porto’s most beautiful gardens.
• Gazete Azulejos in Bonfim. Beyond tile-painting workshops, owners Alba and Marisa research, share and preserve the history of Portuguese tile making in Porto. Workshops support their non-profit digital archive called Os Azulejos do Porto. Very cool!
• Agostinha, a ceramics studio in Porto that offers tile painting classes. 

Where to stay to be close to the best tiles in Porto

Basically all of downtown is close to Porto’s best tiles. Personally, I would choose to stay near Clergio’s Tower as it’s a beautiful downtown area and charming neighbourhood that gives you easy access to plenty of these landmarks. You can explore hotels on the map below.

So that’s my comprehensive list of where to find the best tiles in Porto.

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Keep reading….

• The best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve
• I did this unique Moorish tile-painting workshop in Sintra
• Made in Portugal: 24 Best Portuguese Sneaker Brands
• Best Portuguese Menswear Brands
• My Guide to the Best San Sebastián Pintxo Bars
• Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Lisbon and Lagos, Algarve
• Where to shop for Portuguese ceramics
• The best Portuguese cookbooks in English

The post Best tiles in Porto: Where to find Porto’s most beautiful azulejos appeared first on Olá Daniela.

But when these tiles were unveiled back in 1916 they became a subject of great controversy in local newspapers, and even lead to a court case. Let’s dive into why…

The history of Aveiro Train Station’s tiles

The Estação Ferroviária Aveiro originally opened on April 10, 1864 with a small and modest building. Apparently, due to the marshy nature of the land, the embankments sank several times during construction and kept having to be rebuilt.

Aveiro quickly outgrew its small station, and the beautiful tiled white building we see today was built in 1916, designed by architect José Coelho in a traditional Portuguese style. 

Adding tiled panels to train stations was in fashion at the time, and so 50 remarkable blue, yellow and white tile panels were created in the Fonte Nova Factory by artists Francisco Pereira and Licínio Pinto.

The tiled panels feature local figures, famous monuments and natural landscapes that you can see in the Aveiro region. Some of the tile panels feature people dressed for traditional trades; landscapes of traditional agricultural activities; and distinguished locals who contributed to the railway’s construction.

Look closely at the tiles and you’ll see illustrations of the Aveiro salt marshes, Costa Nova, Vouga River, fishermen’s boats, the Bussaco Hotel, Monastery of Alcobaça, Almourol Castle, Barra Lighthouse, and many more.

Read next: 11 best things to do and see in Aveiro

The azulejo controversy of Estação Ferroviária Aveiro 

When the plans to link Porto and Lisbon by railway were being conceived Aveiro was not on the route. Apparently it was at the insistence of notable Portuguese journalist, politician and parliamentary speaker, José Estevão, who was originally from the city and held the position of chamber deputy at the time. He convinced the government to study and change the route to include Aveiro.

When unveiled in 1916 the tile panels caused plenty of debate in the local papers, and even lead to a court case. But why? 

So allegedly the Portuguese train company (Companhia Real dos Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses) was planning to add two figures – José Estevão and Manuel Firmino – side-by-side immortalised in tiles. Both were involved with the construction of the train station, but after major controversies between Manuel Firmino’s family and José Estevão’s supporters, only Manuel Firmino’s panel was confirmed.

A resolution more than 100 years late?

The station was remodelled in 1986, and on the station’s 75th anniversary a new tile panel by Breda was added, created at the Viçorzette Factory in Águeda.

In 2000, two more tile panels were added to the bathrooms, created by F. Lista at the Artecer Factory in Vila Nova de Gaia.

But it wasn’t until April 2018, some 102 years later, that a new tile panel by artist Marcos Muge was added In honour of 19th-century deputy José Estêvão. 

In 2021 the building was rehabilitated and it now acts as the “Porta da Cidade” or City Welcome Gate. Inside you can find local salt, traditional ovos moles sweets, and wines from Bairrada.

Read next: How to spend 48 hours in Porto

How to see all the tiles at Aveiro Train Station

A shiny new passenger terminal was built next door to the original in 2005, so to view all of the azulejos in their glory you’ll need to shuffle along one of the platforms and then exit through the new terminal to reach the outer side of the 1916 tiled building.

Other amazing tiled train stations in Portugal 

Portugal has no shortage of spectacular tiled train stations. If you liked this one, check out the grand entrance hall of Porto’s São Bento Train Station. With 20,000 tiles lining the hall it’s definitely the most magnificent in the country.

Another one that’s worth a visit the beautiful Santarém Train Station, which features similar tiled panels that show scenic highlights and tourism attractions in the area.

Want more #tileoftheday posts? I got you.

Read more #tileoftheday

• Porto’s Capela das Almas
• Porto’s São Bento Train Station
• Sé Cathedral in Porto
• Lisbon’s Convento de Chelas
• Lisbon’s blue tiled streets
• Charming seaside Sesimbra
• Old town of Figueira da Foz
• Algarve’s São Lourenço Church
• Santarém Train Station
• Coimbra’s Capela de São Miguel

The post Controversy & a court case: Aveiro Train Station’s tiles appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Part of the Universidade de Coimbra (Coimbra University) grounds, we explored the space on an (accidentally) private guided tour. Our guide knocked on the door and we entered the space to hear all about its history dating back to the 16th century. 

The university, which was founded in 1290, was gifted the former Royal Palace of Coimbra – and this chapel along with it – in the 16th century. The chapel managed to retain royal privilege beyond the church even after the handover.

Capela de São Miguel was built in 1517 on the site of a 12th-century oratory. The tiles around the chancel and nave were apparently made in Lisbon and date from 1613. The magnificent and colourful painting on the ceiling is from the late 1600s and was completed by Francisco F. de Araújo.

Related Blog: 36 hours in Coimbra

Most interesting, the giant Baroque organ, with 2,000 pipes, is too big for a chapel of this size. King João V of Portugal gifted the organ, which was likely destined for another church at the time. It’s so loud when played it deafens anyone inside! The Iberian organ dates back to 1737 – it still works perfectly and is used by the university at times. I learnt that organs made in Portugal and Spain are unique as they have horizontal pipes as well as the usual vertical ones. 

The chapel is one of the historic buildings you can visit at the Coimbra University. Entry is included in most tickets. The Capela de São Miguel is still used every Sunday for midday mass.

You read even more about the history of the magnificent space on the university website.

Want more #tileoftheday posts? I got you.

Read more #tileoftheday

• Porto’s Capela das Almas
• Porto’s São Bento Train Station
• Sé Cathedral in Porto
• Lisbon’s Convento de Chelas
• Lisbon’s blue tiled streets
• Charming seaside Sesimbra
• Old town of Figueira da Foz
• Algarve’s São Lourenço Church
• Santarém Train Station

The post Tile of the day: Step inside Capela de São Miguel in Coimbra appeared first on Olá Daniela.

While the Estação de Santarém originally opened in 1861, the tiled panels were added later (as with many buildings in Portugal) in 1927. The beautiful hand-painted blue-and-white tile panels were all produced by Fábrica Aleluia de Aveiro. 

The train station building has 18 panels that feature life in the Ribatejo region. That means traditions, agriculture and farming, and monuments from Santarém plus nearby Golegã and Ourém. Aleluia produced the tile panels using drawings by João Oliveira, and the panels were a gift to CP (Portugal’s train company) from the local tourism board.

Apparently there is also a museum at the station filled with old locomotives and carriages, including those once used by Portugal’s royals.

While most of Portugal’s tile manufacturers cease to exist, Aleluia seems to have reinvented itself into a modern company and you can still buy (mostly contemporary) tiles from the factory today. Read my guide on where to shop for tiles or azulejos in Portugal.

Portugal has no shortage of spectacular tiled train stations. If you liked this one, check out the grand entrance hall of Porto’s São Bento Station. With 20,000 tiles lining the hall it’s definitely the most magnificent in the country.

Read more #tileoftheday

• Porto’s Capela das Almas
• Porto’s São Bento Train Station
• Sé Cathedral in Porto
• Lisbon’s Convento de Chelas
• Lisbon’s blue tiled streets
• Charming seaside Sesimbra
• Old town of Figueira da Foz
• Algarve’s São Lourenço Church
• Aveiro Train Station’s tiles

The post Tile of the day: Santarém Train Station appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Of course, if you’re visiting Portugal you’ll want to take home a unique memento or souvenir of your time here. If you find yourself drawn to the practical square ceramics use this guide on where to shop for tiles or azulejos in Portugal.

Between small tile ateliers and big tile factories, there are dozens of options for you to take home a unique Made in Portugal tile, azulejo or ceramic piece while also supporting living artisans and not destroying the country’s heritage. That’s a win-win! Let’s go shopping…

Find a tile-painting workshop and create your own souvenir from Portugal

Lisbon – This two-hour Hispanic Moorish Tile Workshop in Sintra; two-hour class at Art of Azulejo in Marvila (Wed & Sun); or, this same-day tile design workshop (no overnight baking required).

Porto – This creative tiles and cocktails class (with another Daniela).

Algarve – Two-hour tile painting workshop, or full-day experience (nature, food and tiles in one day!)

First, a warning about buying second-hand tiles

Where to shop for azulejos in Lisbon

Tile factories in Lisbon

Fábrica de Sant’anna, Chiado

This tile shop in Chiado is linked to Lisbon’s oldest tile factory, Fábrica de Sant’anna. Since 1741 this tile manufacturer has been producing hand-painted tiles and ceramics. The boutique itself is stacked full of incredible hand-painted ceramics that are all one-of-a-kind and look antique. You can even find Moorish style tiles. If you want to go behind-the-scenes you can visit the factory in Ajuda with a guided tour.

Viúva Lamego, Sintra

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If you’re looking for tiles or azulejos on a grand scale – for walls, pools or restaurants – Viúva Lamego is the spot. Launched in 1849, Viúva Lamego has roots in the past but is a very modern tile producer where you can trend-driven tiles for your dream projects. In the 1960s this company was behind most of the Lisbon Metro station tiles, I believe, and they still collaborate on artist-driven large-scale panels across the city, in restaurants and beyond. While its unfortunately closed the city store, (the spectacular tiled building in Largo do Intendente is still there) you can visit the factory in Sintra. 

Azulejos de Azeitao, Azeitão

Located a 25-minute drive south of Lisbon in a cute town best known for its wine making, Azulejos do Azeitão is a small tile factory that produces everything by hand. When we dropped in one of the workers kindly showed us how they created the two styles of tiles, embossed and flat, and how they hand painted each with patterns or otherwise. We were able to watch three or four staff hand painting tiles in the small studio space. Pair your visit with a tasting at José Maria de Fonseca or the 16th century wine palace Quinta de Bacalhôa (it’s filled with tiles). 

Hot tip: You can go for a day trip south of Lisbon to visit this fantastic small tile producer along with a winery and sightseeing. Try this great tour that explores the best towns and sights south of Lisbon, or this one that includes a tile-painting workshop here.

Azulejos Manual Marques Antunes, Alcabidiche (Sintra)

Following in the footsteps of his father, Manual started his azulejo career in 1947 (!!) while working on a project for Lisbon Zoo. He didn’t found Azulejos Manual Marques Antunes until 1985, but since then the business has been manufacturing hand painted traditional Portuguese tiles the old fashioned ways. Now the business is in third generation.

Love tiles? While in Lisbon visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

Azulejo ateliers in Lisbon

XVIII – Azulejo & Faiança, Alfama & Chiado

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Located right near my favourite Lisbon lookout, Miradouro de Santa Luzia (and with a second location in Chiado), this little authentic tile shop, XVIII – Azulejo & Faiança, is filled with hand-painted replicas of all the Lisbon azulejos you will have spotted across the city. Like the name, they make tiles in the style of the 18th century so you can pick up your favourites here without contributing to the stolen tile trade. At the back you can see artisans at work.

Ceramica S. Vincente, Castelo

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If you want to try your hand at painting a tile, Ceramica S. Vincente is the spot to go in Lisbon. This small boutique tile artisan is Cristina Pina’s studio, where she works and sells as her pieces, alongside her son Miguel. Pick up an exquisite artisanal piece or join a workshop at the atelier close to the Feira da Ladra markets, Alfama and Castelo de São Jorge.

Loja dos Descobrimentos, Alfama

Part shop, part atelier, this Alfama boutique is loaded with ceramics and tiles made from around the country. At the back of Loja dos Descobrimentos, which has been open in 1986, there is a studio where you can join classes and paint tiles.

Related Blog: Made in Portugal: Where to shop for Portuguese ceramics

Chkyrya de Araújo Azulejos (PATC.Atelier)

Run by a couple that hand paint azulejos, Chkyrya de Araújo Azulejos (PATC.Atelier) is a project that you’ll see popping up at markets around the city. I usually find them at the Sunday afternoon markets at the LX Factory where they have hand-painted square tiles, coasters and even mini fridge magnets, and they also have some pieces at Cortiço e Netos i Lisbon’s Intendente.

It’s the perfect spot to shop for authentic souvenirs in Lisbon. I really love the slightly oversized tile coasters they make based on real Lisbon tiles.

Planning a trip to Portugal? I can help! Book a one-on-one video call and get custom help organising your perfect Portugal itinerary, filled with artisan finds, fantastic restaurants, and the best destinations. Find out more about my Portugal travel planning service here.

Boutiques and shops that sell Portuguese-made tiles in Lisbon

Cortiço e Netos, Intendente

If you’re a fan of the more industrial-style printed tiles – that is tiles created between the 1960s and 1990s – then you’ll love this little boutique. The story goes that Joaquim Cortiço started buying discontinued industrial tiles and selling them. Now his four grandsons (the “netos”) now run the business, Cortiço e Netos. There’s usually a box of chipped/broken tiles that you can buy cheaply for mosaics or projects.

Solar Antiques, Principe Real

If you absolutely must have an antique, original Lisbon tile or azulejo then venture into Solar Antiques. This is a reputable antique tile seller who have a huge collection of well-documented antique azulejos spanning from the 15th to 19th centuries. Expect to find panels, building tiles and interior tiles from churches and old palaces. D’Orey Tiles in Chiado is another spot for antique azulejos.

Surrealejos, Santos

For something completely different, look to this shop that sells surreal ceramic tiles individually or in panels that you can use throughout your home, inside or out. I’m more of a traditionalist, but I love variety and anything outside the box. Surrealejos is certainly that!

Bordallo Pinheiro

With shops around the country, it’s easy to find the famous Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics (hello my favourite cabbage bowls) anywhere in Portugal. If you like embossed tiles, this historic brand still produces its iconic range of art deco style tiles with frogs and butterflies at the centre.  

A Vida Portuguesa, Chiado & Intendente

My favourite shop in all of Portugal, the brilliant A Vida Portuguesa boutiques sell all things Portuguese with almost entirely heritage brands. Step inside and find a small range of hand-painted tiles, probably with cork underneath to make coasters.

Tile-painting classes in Lisbon and Porto

You can make a replica of your favourite Portuguese tiles with a tile-painting class. I’ve written a whole blog just on tile-painting workshops across Lisbon and Portugal.

Love ceramics? Check out my guide on where to shop ceramics in Portugal

Paint your own tile? The best tile painting workshops in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve

Where to shop for tiles in Porto

Factories and azulejo ateliers in Porto

Gazete Azulejos, Bonfim

This is maybe my favourite tile project in Portugal. Gazete Azulejos is more than just a hand-painted tile atelier. Alba and Marisa research, share and preserve the history of Portuguese tile making in Porto. Beyond the made-to-order tile studio and group workshops for tourists, they are also building a non-profit digital archive called Os Azulejos do Porto documenting the patterns that decorate the facades of Porto. Very cool. I’ve done a tile workshop with them and it was great to see inside the studio and gain insight into their world.

Azulima, Boavista

The showroom of this azulejo factory is stocked with every type of tiles, shape, colour, style and technique you could dream of. From old-style hand-painted scenes to modern colours and even concrete floor tiles, you’ll find it all at Azulima – happy browsing.

Zinda, Ribeira

Zinda is a small independent boutique that sells hand-made ceramics and tiles made by artist Adosinda Pereira. It’s super cute and right in the heart of the city.

Read next: Best tiles in Porto: Where to find Porto’s most beautiful azulejos

Boutiques and shops that sell tiles in Porto

Prometeu Artesanato, Ribeira & Batalha

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Drop into this boutique to shop artisanal ceramics, tiles and other goods from around Portugal. There are three Prometeu Artesanato shops in downtown Porto, so you’re almost guaranteed to pass one and lucky you, the focus in each store is really on the azulejos that cover the walls and counters. Choose from multi-tile panels or tiny hand-painted magnets to take home.

Crivart, Miragaia

This small boutique stocks all sorts of Portuguese souvenirs, including tiles. Shop a range of coloured, illustrated and stamped azulejos of various styles at Crivart. Some have been made into coasters and fridge magnets, a perfect gift or souvenir.

Related Blog: Where to shop for authentic souvenirs in Lisbon

Sir Tile, Cedofeita

Combining the best of two key Portuguese products – tiles and textiles – Sir Tile produces very cool azulejo socks. The north of Portugal is known internationally for its high quality clothing manufacturing, so take home a pair of Portuguese made socks with tile prints.

Where to shop for tiles elsewhere in Portugal

Factories and azulejo ateliers in the Algarve

Porches Pottery, Lagoa

Since 1968 this Algarve pottery institution has crafted hand-painted ceramic pieces and tiles, inspired by Portugal’s rich past and the south’s Mediterranean way of life. The store is absolutely gorgeous, and behind the counter you can see the table where half a dozen local women paint the brand’s famous designs.

There’s also a tile-filled café that’s the perfect stop for coffee and cake. Shop panels, tiles, house plaques and pottery at Porches Pottery in Lagoa.

Olaria Pequena, Lagoa

Close to Porches, Olaria Pequena produce a most artistic range of hand painted tiles that draws inspiration from nature, the coast, the seas and Algarve living.

Terracota do Algarve, São Brás de Alportel

While the focus of this family-owned ceramic business is, as the name suggests, on terracotta products (yes, those gorgeous Algarve terracotta floor and roof tiles), Terracotta do Algarve have a network with artisans who create hand glazed tiles elsewhere in the country.

Factories and azulejo ateliers in the Centre

Aleluia, Aveiro

Founded in 1905, Aleluia is a ceramics factory on a mega scale. While they have huge warehouses and state-of-the-art wall and floor tile ceramic production, they still choose to keep some traditions and have a range of modern and traditional patterns that are hand painted.

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Sá Nogueira Azulejaria, near Obidos

At the studio of José and Amélia they produce tiles and ceramic boxes with tile lids inspired by the Arabic relief tiles and traditional colours. You’ll find Sá Nogueira Azulejaria goods in museum shops at palaces around Portugal, but it sounds like they also accept visitors.

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That’s my mega guide to where to buy tiles in Portugal, covering azulejo workshops and ateliers from Porto to the Algarve. If you’re interested in ceramics, you might like my guide on Where to shop for Portuguese ceramics or you can find a tile-painting workshop in Portugal here.

If you found this post useful, consider buying me a coffee to support my work.

If you found this guide useful, please leave a comment! It makes my day

Keep reading

• Tile of the day: Sé Cathedral do Porto
• Where to shop Portuguese ceramics by weight (cerâmica ao kilo) & pottery outlets
• Portugal Road Trip: Where to stop between Lisbon and Porto
• The best pastel de nata cooking classes
• How to spend 48 hours in Porto
• Where to eat in Lisbon
• Where to shop for Portuguese ceramics
• Where to find the best vintage and second-hand shops in Lisbon

The post Where to shop for tiles (azulejos) in Portugal appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Today’s #tileoftheday is diving deep on Capela das Almas de Catarina or Capela de Santa Catarina, an 18th century chapel covered with a casual 15,947 tiles. No big deal.

Read next: Best tiles in Porto: Where to find Porto’s most beautiful azulejos

This is one of Porto’s most magnificent and most photographed attractions and it’s conveniently located along Rua de Santa Catarina, the city’s pedestrian mall in Santo Ildefonso. It’s just around the corner from the Mercado do Bolhão, Porto’s must-visit fresh marketplace.

The name Capela das Almas means Soul’s Chapel, and while the building itself is some 200 years old the tiles were only added in 1929. Artist Eduardo Leite designed the illustrations and they were made in Lisbon by Fábrica de Cerâmica Viúva Lamego, which is still a working tile factory.

The blue-and-white tiled facade pays tribute to two saints, showing the martyrdom of Santa Catarina and the death of São Francisco de Assis. 

There’s also 19th century stained glass windows by Amandio Silva.

Related Blog: Tile of the day: Sé Cathedral do Porto

Want more #tileoftheday posts? I got you.

Read more #tileoftheday

• Aveiro Train Station’s tiles
• Porto’s São Bento Train Station
• Sé Cathedral in Porto
• Lisbon’s Convento de Chelas
• Lisbon’s blue tiled streets
• Charming seaside Sesimbra
• Old town of Figueira da Foz
• Algarve’s São Lourenço Church
• Santarém Train Station
• Coimbra’s Capela de São Miguel

The post Tile of the day: Capela das Almas de Santa Catarina in Porto appeared first on Olá Daniela.

The small city lies where the River Mondego meets the Atlantic Ocean two hours north of Lisbon by car. Nicknamed Rainha das Praias (Queen of Beaches), in the summertime swarms of tourists descend on the wide beaches, and in winter… well it was a little quiet.

After wandering around a very quiet downtown in search of dinner we hit the beachfront where an empty pop-up amusement park lay – both a thing of childhood dreams and haunting nightmares. Jorge had always said he wanted to try ice skating, so soon enough we were strapped up and cutting a few precarious laps around a small rink on the sand. Like most things Jorge tries, he was a pro after 10 minutes. 

A sunny day in Figueira da Foz

While I didn’t make it into Casa do Paço, which houses an incredible collection of thousands of 17th century Dutch tiles from Delft that are thought to have come from a shipwreck offshore, I did wander about the old cute town snapping pictures of the old architecture and tiles.

Figueira da Foz is one of those places where you can see the glory days of yesteryear on show. There was apparently huge development in the 18th and 19th centuries at the port, where shipbuilding and cod drying brought wealth. Towards the end of the 19th century the city became a seaside resort, growing in reputation until the 1920s and 30s. The result? Gorgeous, old crumbling architecture and a grand city centre.

Enjoy this part photo diary, part guide to Figueira da Foz.

Things to do in Figueira da Foz

• Visit the mercado to buy local rice and salt
• Laze on one of the giant beaches
• Eat burgers at the triangular-shaped 1500s era Santa Catarina fortress
• Gamble at one of the Iberian Peninsula’s biggest casinos
• Take a hike through the Serra da Boa Viagem
• Visit Núcleo Museológico do Sal and photograph flamingos
• Check out the wave breaks over the river at Cabedelo
•  Drive out to the nearby Castelo de Montemor-o-velho

Where to eat in Figueira da Foz

• Muralha Chafarica (pictured): traditional Portuguese with sea views
• Burgus: the burger bar in the fort with amazing views front the roof
• Gato Preto: proper little snack bar for wine and petiscos (tapas)
• Tasca Maria: traditional Portuguese
• O Peleiro: traditional Portuguese, in a nearby village
• Tasca das Boias: old man bar filled with fisherman

Where to stay in Figueira da Foz

Bacharéis Charming House

I’m slightly obsessed with the small guesthouse we stayed in at Figueira da Foz. In the remodel they took the bones, features and history of the space and turned it into cute details throughout the space. Old papers have been framed, and the library is filled with stories. Plus, the breakfast at Bacharéis Charming House was the best I’ve ever had in Portugal.

See availability & rates

How to get to Figueira da Foz

From Lisbon

Figueira da Foz is an easy two-hour drive up the motorway from Lisbon. By train it will take longer: 2 hours and 40 minutes if you take a regional train, switching at Alfarelos-Granja do Ulmeiro station, or there’s a Rede Expressos coach that takes a similar amount of time.

From Porto 

Closer to Porto, it takes just 80 minutes by car. If you want to take the train you’ll need to ride until Coimbra and change lines, taking two-and-a-half hours total. A coach service is the better option.

Driving between Lisbon and Porto? I have guides for things to do and see in the city of Aveiro and Caldas da Rainha too.

Read next… 

• Best music festivals in Portugal
• Best food festivals
• Unmissable medieval events in Portugal
• 22 most beautiful castles in Portugal
• 16 most beautiful villages and small towns in Portugal
• Just Flow: What to expect at this Portugal yoga and wellness retreat
• Where to eat in Tomar

The post 9 best things to do in Figueira da Foz appeared first on Olá Daniela.

I’d heard that the Sé Cathedral do Porto had some stunning blue-and-white tile scenes to check out, and being winter I thought maybe we could time it to catch the sun disappear before closing time. As it often happens, I was right and the top of the Sé tower might be the best sunset spot in Porto.

The Sé do Porto is more than 900 years old. Yes, work started in 1110 and as you can imagine the imposing building has gone through many changes in that time, so you’ll spy Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque architecture and influence.

Most importantly, there’s a huge amount of incredible azulejos making this a certain #tileoftheday.

Read next: Best tiles in Porto: Where to find Porto’s most beautiful azulejos

The blue-and-white tile scenes inside the Gothic cloisters were painted by Valentim de Almeida between 1729 and 1731, depicting the life of the Virgin Mary and Ovid’s Metamorphoses. 

On the upstairs terrace of the Sé do Porto there’s also these huge tile panels by António Vidal.

There’s something extra special about the way ancient Porto sparkles under the glow of sunlight. The city has a very different feeling to Lisbon, where I live, which is why visiting is always magic.

Porto didn’t suffer the fate of the 1755 earthquake that razed much of Lisbon, and the nickname – cidade invictus – which means undefeated city means its enemies were never able to conquer the ancient town. The result? Everything feels older.

Want more #tileoftheday posts? I got you.

Read more #tileoftheday

• Porto’s Capela das Almas
• Porto’s São Bento Train Station
• Lisbon’s Convento de Chelas
• Lisbon’s blue tiled streets
• Charming seaside Sesimbra
• Old town of Figueira da Foz
• Algarve’s São Lourenço Church
• Santarém Train Station
• Coimbra’s Capela de São Miguel
• Nazare’s Ermida da Memória
• Aveiro Train Station’s tiles

Read next… Best Porto wine tasting tours (that I’ve done)

The post Tile of the day: Sé Cathedral do Porto appeared first on Olá Daniela.