Tag: azulejos

‘Tis the gift-giving season, which puts us in mind of some special souvenirs of Portugal that also would make perfect presents for everyone on your list: Filigree jewelry is typical in the north of Portugal. It comes in gold or silver, in traditional motifs, such as the classic “Heart of Viana,” as well as more contemporary designs. In the gold-mining city of Gondomar, near Porto, groups can follow The Filigree Route and visit some filigree workshops as well as try making some themselves. Cork is quintessentially Portuguese, and not just because it’s used to stopper a bottle of wine. Portugal is the biggest producer of this sustainable, versatile product and the rugged cork oaks it comes from are a feature of its rural landscapes. Transformed into a leather-like and supple material, cork is being made into things like handbags, wallets, briefcases, hats, belts, shoes…you name it, all vegan and eco-friendly. Azulejos, whether an individual tile, a panel of them depicting a scene or a pattern printed onto virtually anything, are very representative of Portugal and, of course, highly decorative. Even those traveling light can take home a textile or jewelry version, and more artistic travelers might want to try their hand at painting or mosaic workshops and take home their own tile creation. Soaps and other scented home and body care products from distinctively Portuguese brands such as Ach. Brito, Confiança, Claus Porto, Castelbel and Benamôr offer affordable luxury in beautiful packaging. St. Anthony isn’t actually the patron saint of Lisbon, but many shops offer jewelry or little statues representing him. He was born in Lisbon and his feast day on June 13th is celebrated with parades and street parties--as well as a mass wedding in the cathedral, because he is the patron saint of love and marriage. (He’s also