Azulejo (ah-zoo-LEH-joo) is the Portuguese word for tile. These tiles are one of the most noticeable traditions of Portugal. Whether at school, on the metro, going shopping or buying groceries, you will almost certainly find one of these decorative symbols to look at.
Azulejos are decorative tiles that add color and tell stories, both on the inside and outside of buildings. These tiles can be as simple as repetitive patterns or as complex as big, long stories about religion, history and culture. Almost every city in Portugal has tiles. Many places even use azulejos as street signs and house numbers!
Like many traditions, azulejos have their origins outside of Portugal. The first azulejos arrived in Portugal in 1498, brought by King Manuel I from Spain. These tiles were first produced by the Moors, Muslim inhabitants of Spain and Portugal for over 700 years. In Portugal, these tiles were used to cover up large blank walls that were common in Gothic architecture. By the 18th century, Portugal was producing more tiles than any other European nation.
