If there’s one thing that makes you think of Porto, it has to be the blue and white tiles. Known as ‘azulejos’, these ceramic tiles are one of the cities’ most iconic sights. You will see them on churches, train stations, houses, walls and shops; they are everywhere. If you love wandering the streets with a camera like us looking for that perfect shot, or if you enjoy seeking out a city’s amazing architecture, then hunting down the blue and white tiles will keep you busy for hours, and it’s free! Here are the best places to see Porto’s beautiful blue and white tiles.
One more thing that might make you think of Porto is its famous pastel de nata. Hungry? Read on for more. The best bakeries for Pastel de Nata in Porto, Portugal.
WHERE DID THE AZULEJOS COME FROM?
These ceramic tiles, known as azulejos, are one of Portugal’s most iconic features.
Despite what many people assume, azulejos didn’t actually originate in Portugal. It was the Moors who brought this tradition of intricate glazed tilework to Iberia centuries ago. The name ‘Azulejos’ comes from the Arabic word ‘al-zulayj’, meaning “a polished stone”.
By the 17th and 18th centuries, Portuguese artisans made the style their own. They were inspired by blue and white porcelain being imported from China and later by the Dutch importing Delftware. Artists began creating elaborate tile panels that told stories, celebrated historical events, depicted religious scenes, or simply added beauty to everyday buildings.
SÃO BENTO RAILWAY STATION
No visit to Porto is complete without stepping inside São Bento Railway Station. There is an estimated 20,000 hand-painted blue and white tiles here. These cover the grand entrance hall. They painted snapshots of moments in Portuguese history, including royal ceremonies, battles and traditions. The detail is incredible, and every glance reveals something new. Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning.
IGREJA DO CARMO
Another of the city’s most iconic churches is the Igreja do Carmo. Situated a short walk from the Fonte dos Leões fountain. The front of the church is incredible; however, the real showstopper is the enormous blue and white tiled mural covering the side wall. The artwork tells the story of the founding of the Carmelite Order. The Igreja do Carmo is also connected to the Igreja dos Carmelitas.
THE CHAPEL OF SOULS, CAPELA DAS ALMAS
If you’re looking for some dramatic azulejos, the Capela das Almas is hard to beat. On the corner of Santa Catarina Street, the chapel is covered with tiles depicting the lives of several saints. I think this one was my favourite out of all the places we found the tiles. From top to bottom, decorated in stunningly beautiful hand-painted tiles. I could spend hours just looking at it in fine detail.
IGREJA DE SANTO ANTÓNIO DOS CONGREGADOS
On one of the main routes through the city sits the Church of Saint Anthony. Another gorgeous baroque-style building covered in tiles. The azulejos show scenes from the life of Saint Anthony, all painted by the artist Jorge Colaço.
IGREJA DE SANTO ILDEFONSO
Standing over Batalha Square is the Church of Saint Ildefonso. It is an absolute gem of a church. Around 11,000 azulejos decorate the exterior. Here, you will find scenes and stories from the life of Saint Ildefonso. Grab a pastel de nata, sit in the square below, enjoy your custard tart and admire this stunning masterpiece.
PORTO CATHEDRAL, SÉ DO PORTO
There are beautiful blue and white tiles everywhere in this church. Outside, inside, on the roof and in its stunning cloister. The cathedral is only €4, which is an absolute bargain. The church is breathtaking and has some of the best views out over the city.
WANDER THE RIBEIRA DISTRICT
Porto’s Ribeira district is full of narrow lanes and passageways, colourful traditional houses and buildings featuring original tiled walls and fronts. Here you will find a mix of blue and white azulejos and vibrant, colourful tiles that make this part of the city come alive. Wander, soak up the atmosphere, and see how many tiles and different designs you notice along the way.
PARISH CHURCH OF SÃO PEDRO DE MIRAGAIA
We found this church one day by accident, without a plan for where we were walking or exploring. Just outside the Ribeira District at R. de Tomás Gonzaga. An unassuming building, with a beautifully crafted blue and white front and a stunning golden altar inside.
TOP TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING THE TILES
The azulejos are very photogenic and make for great photo memories. Here are a few tips that can make your photos even better.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds; that way your views will be uninhibited.
- Bright sunny days and the angles at which you take your photos can cause bad glare. Cloudy days help reduce bright reflections on the tiles.
- Don’t use your camera flash. This can cause bright glare on the tiles and spoil your photos.
- Spend time looking at the details; some of these tiles tell incredible stories.
- Visit inside the churches. Don’t just admire the tiles on the outside of buildings. Some of the best, least-damaged and most unique tiles are tucked away.
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