Porto is a colorful city, in part due to the traditional azulejos (hand-painted tiles) that adorn many building façades.
In the 8th century, the Moors introduced decorative geometric tiles to the area. Back then, tiles were painted using thin ridges of clay to prevent the colors from colliding. The Portugese adopted the technique.
In the mid-16th century, an Italian method using a tin oxide coating was introduced wherein images could be painted directly onto the clay.
The ceramic tiles became very popular, especially in churches and other commercial buildings, due to their ease of use. Religious imagery, historical moments and still images like fruit and flowers were in demand. There are many buildings around town whose painted panels illustrate various legends or historical events.
By the late-17th century, blue and white tiles were fashionable, influenced by Dutch tile-makers.
By the mid-19th century, mass-produced tiles were used to decorate and insulate homes and shops. Handily, the tiles also protected buildings from extreme weather conditions.
Today, Portugal is the leading producer of decorative tiles.
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