History of Azulejos

In Portuguese history, azulejos represent more than an artistic style-they are a visual language that tells the story of Portugal's social, religious and political evolution. From their early origins in the 15th century to their zenith during the 17th and 18th centuries, azulejos became deeply embedded in the identity of Portuguese architecture. Their use was not limited to churches and places but extended to public squares, schools and private homes, transforming urban and rural landscapes alike. These tiles carry a profound cultural and religious significance, often depicting scenes from the Bible, allegorical figures, or representations of historical events.

 

 In Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the western coast of India, azulejos were introduced by Portuguese settlers in the early 16th century and became a prominent feature of Goan architecture. Azulejos in Goa, much like in Portugal, adorned churches, chapels, convents, and the homes of the local elite, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to define the region's architectural landscape. These tiles are particularly visible in heritage buildings, where they serve both decorative and symbolic purposes. The introduction of azulejos to Goa brought with it an artistic fusion, combining European and local Indian elements to create a unique visual identity that reflects Goa's colonial past and its position as a cultural crossroads.