Portugal’s brand of blue & white

Some countries conjure a particularly Keen sense of visual identity. australia equals kangaroo. Egypt owns the pyramid. And portugal is synonymous with glorious blue and white tiles.

Since at least the 13th C, azulejos (the proper term for these glazed ceramic tiles of Arabic origin) have featured prominently on Portuguese buildings, both inside and out. They’re found in a variety of hues, but blue and white are the classic colours. Primarily decorative, these tiles are nonetheless wickedly effective at protecting surfaces and regulating temperature. Their visual delicacy belies a physical toughness.

What I love most about azulejos is their storytelling power—their ability to express emotion and artistry, their conveyance of history, their sense of flourish. I also appreciate their specificity. Yes, you’ll find them in various Portuguese colonies (from Mexico to Macau) and for sure the finely cut tiles of North Africa are clearly related, but really, azulejos belong to Portugal. They help colour the national identity and create an unmistakable brand recognition.