Escape the tourist crowds and explore the timeless art of Portuguese tile painting in a truly authentic setting.
This experience begins the moment you leave the noise of the street behind and enter a personal, uniquely curated space. Surrounded by inspiring sketches, architecture books, and beautiful azulejos that decorate the space, you immediately feel the cosiness and creativity that define this experience. This is not a commercial classroom. It is a living, creative space where art comes to life every day, and where your host Ana, a local architect and tile artist, passionately preserves and reinterprets this timeless tradition.
During a two-hour session, begin by discovering the fascinating history of Portuguese azulejos and their deep connection to Porto’s identity as you sip a coffee or a tea. Learn how azulejos evolved through the centuries and how they continue to be an icon.
Then, experience the joy of creating your own traditional tiles. Choose a classic design or create your own, transfer, and paint your piece step by step with personal guidance from Ana, your host. She will carefully support you throughout the entire process, ensuring that you feel confident and inspired, whether you are a complete beginner or already love creative activities. Experiment with traditional tecniques, apply vibrant glazes and watch your tiles come to life.
To sweeten your creative process, you'll be treated with a warm, freshly baked pastel de nata, creating a relaxed and welcoming Portuguese atmosphere. Share stories, exchange travel experiences, and feel as though you are spending the afternoon with a talented local friend rather than attending a formal class.
After the session, your tiles will be fired in a ceramic kiln and they'll be ready to pick up the next day. Take home not only a beautiful tile to feature in your own space, but also the memory of an inspiring, personal, and genuinely local experience in Porto.