Azulejos and Mosaics of Lisbon

Crisp blue lines on perfect white tiles.  Spiralling mosaics that extend down the pavement.  Cracked ageing green tiles on a derelict building.  I visited Lisbon a year ago (how time flies!) and everywhere I looked a different type of azulejo tile or mosaic pattern met my eye.  I loved spotting my favourites, and the different colours, textures and styles that made each unique.  Some of my favourites are below – to read more of my adventures in Lisbon, click here!

A mixture of styles in an outdoor courtyard in Sintra

Central Lisbon

Azulejo are a particular style of Portuguese tile that have been in use since the Moors introduced them to the country in the 15th century. While there are a multitude of decorative colours, styles and patterns in evidence today, the tiles also serve a practical purpose as they work to cool houses during the hot summer months.  I couldn’t get enough of them during my time in Lisbon – particularly those with an unusual motif or texture.

Even Lisbon’s pavements were works of art!

The Town Hall in Sintra

A very Moorish-style shelter

Pena Palace, Sintra

You might guess just from looking that this is near Castelo de São Jorge

Nicole dwarfed by the gorgeous Santa Engracia

Cascais

I loved the reliefs on these tiles

Have you visited Portugal and seen its azulejos for yourself?

Whoop whoop it’s Travel Tuesday time!  This week I am nominating Alec of Life As We Know It and her beautiful post on San Marino.  I haven’t read a lot about travels to this teeny republic within the borders of Italy and after seeing her gorgeous photographs I’m intrigued… I may just have to head back to Italy now.  Tough times!