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Along the northern coast, between Lisboa Barcelos, exist the main centers for ceramic manufacturers. This is because of the rich clay beds that exist there. From these beds comes the raw materials used to create earthenware, fine porcelain, ovenware, stoneware and much, much more! |
Ceramics have been a part of the Portuguese culture since the 1600's. Over the centuries, influences from Asiatic, Arabic and Italian cultures have helped Portuguese ceramics to become exceptionally diverse and as a result our products are in demand around the world.
In 1824 Portugal's first ceramics factory, Vista Alegre, was opened. From that humble beginning, the industry has flourished and continues to grow. Currently, 90% of the products produced in the ceramics industry are shipped beyond our borders and in 1997 the export turnover value reached $361.4 million.