Discussion What's the Real Meaning of 'Azulejos'?

[JetsetterJules]

I was listening to a radio show this week where they were discussing Portuguese tile work, referred to as 'azulejos'. The guests mentioned that 'azulejos' doesn't just mean ceramic, but specifically refers to the color blue. This got me curious about the history and significance behind these tiles. Does anyone know more about why blue became so prominent in Portuguese tile work? Also, are there any must-visit places in Portugal to see these azulejos in person?

 

[SkyExplorer]

The term 'azulejos' indeed has a fascinating history, rooted in the Arabic word 'al-zulayj', meaning 'polished stone'. While it's true that blue became a dominant color, especially during the 16th century due to the influence of Chinese porcelain, azulejos come in a variety of colors. The prominence of blue is often attributed to the cobalt pigment, which was highly prized and durable. For a competitive traveler like yourself, I'd recommend visiting Lisbon's National Tile Museum to dive deep into the history. Also, don't miss the São Bento Railway Station in Porto, where the walls are adorned with stunning azulejo panels. Have you considered exploring the Moorish influences on azulejos as well?