Solar Antiques, Lisbon

While wandering the charming streets of Lisbon, one cannot help but be captivated by the blue and white ceramic tiles adorning the facades of countless historic edifices. These exquisite ceramic tiles, known as 'azulejos', are splendid choices for thoughtful gifts to convey the essence of Portugal to friends and loved ones residing afar. In the city's specialized boutiques, sets of these ornate tiles, frequently depicting pastoral and maritime scenes, are readily available, awaiting to be transformed into wall mosaics. Additionally, individual tiles may be procured for a variety of purposes, whether as standalone art pieces, functional coasters, or as heat-resistant pads for culinary endeavors.

For those seeking authentic antiquity in azulejo artistry, Solar stands as the quintessential destination. Here, a remarkable array of tiles, some exceeding four centuries in age, is on offer. Mostly originating from erstwhile grand mansions, churches, regal palaces and other venerable structures that have undergone refurbishment or met the fate of demolition, these tiles bear witness to the passage of time. Prices for these treasures exhibit considerable variance, with modest mementos available for a mere 10 to 20 EUR, while larger sets, commissioned masterpieces, and antique specimens may command prices soaring well into the hundreds.

Furthermore, this emporium boasts an exquisite inventory of Portuguese furniture and paintings, predominantly hailing from the epochs spanning the 16th to the 18th century.