Best Spots To See Azulejo Tiles In Porto

Planning a trip to Portugal and eager to discover the finest azulejos in Porto? You're in for a treat! This guide highlights my top picks for encountering those exquisite blue tiles across the city. Continue reading to uncover all the must-see azulejos in Porto for your upcoming adventure!

what are azulejo tiles?

Here's a post highlighting the top azulejos in Porto, but what exactly are they? Azulejos are the renowned ceramic tiles found throughout Portugal, with Porto showcasing a wealth of these artistic treasures.

While many azulejos feature the classic blue and white color scheme, they can also incorporate a range of colors (though these are less common, especially among Porto's finest azulejos). These tiles represent one of Portugal's most distinctive art forms, celebrated for their exquisite beauty.

Crafted as square ceramic plates, azulejos undergo painting and glazing processes. Upon closer inspection, azulejos reveal more than just patterned designs and geometric motifs—

they narrate stories, often revolving around themes such as religion, hunting, warfare, mythology, and maritime exploration. Below are the best places to find these tiles in Porto!

São Bento Station

The São Bento Railway Station in Porto is renowned for its breathtaking display of azulejo tiles, making it a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts alike. The station, inaugurated in 1916, features a grand vestibule adorned with approximately 20,000 azulejo tiles that depict scenes from Portugal's history, culture, and transportation evolution.

These intricate blue and white ceramic tiles were crafted by artist Jorge Colaço between 1905 and 1916. The panels cover the station's walls from floor to ceiling, creating a stunning visual narrative that captivates visitors as they enter the space. The azulejos at São Bento Station are not only a testament to Portugal's artistic heritage but also serve as a historical record, showcasing important moments such as battles, royal processions, and traditional Portuguese life.

One of the most iconic scenes depicted in the azulejos is the Battle of Valdevez, a significant historical event in Portugal's past.

Other panels showcase pastoral scenes, cityscapes, and intricate floral motifs, all masterfully rendered in the classic blue and white palette typical of azulejo art.

The is a fully operational train station, bustling throughout the day. I recommend visiting in the early morning hours or late evenings when the station appears to be less busy. While capturing photos may pose some challenges due to the crowds, exercise patience, and you'll find a few moments to capture your desired shots!

Igreja do Carmo

The Church of São Francisco, also known as Igreja do Carmo, is a significant landmark in Porto renowned for its stunning azulejo tiles and rich history. Built in the 18th century in the Baroque style, the church showcases various architectural influences of the time. The interior features intricate blue and white azulejo tiles installed in 1910, depicting scenes related to the Carmelite religious order's founding on Mount Carmel. The tiles illustrate moments from the lives of Prophet Elijah and the Virgin Mary, central figures in Carmelite tradition. Ongoing preservation efforts ensure visitors can still appreciate the tiles' beauty.

Igreja do Carmo offers a captivating blend of Baroque architecture, religious symbolism, and artistic tilework, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts exploring Porto. This church not only embodies Porto's cultural heritage but also offers a visually stunning and historically rich experience for visitors.

It's often overlooked that there are actually two churches situated side by side here - the Igreja do Carmo (the one we're discussing now) and its twin, the Igreja dos Carmelitas! Among all the blue tiles in Porto, photographing this one was my favorite!

The facade is simply outstanding—it's difficult to capture a bad photo here! Do not miss visiting this one!

Capela das Almas

Capela das Almas, or Chapel of Souls dates back to the 18th century when it was constructed. However, the azulejo tilework that adorns its facade was added in the early 20th century, between 1929 and 1932, by artist Eduardo Leite. These tiles are meticulously arranged to form panels illustrating the lives of saints, biblical events, and moments from the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, such as his stigmata and his interactions with animals. Capela das Almas is dedicated to the souls of departed Christians, reflecting Porto's strong religious heritage and devotion. Inside the chapel, visitors can find a serene space adorned with religious symbols and an altar where prayers and reflections take place.

Beyond its captivating facade, the chapel embodies traditional Porto architecture, characterized by Baroque influences and a compact, intimate layout. The facade's azulejo tiles seamlessly blend with the architectural elements, creating a harmonious and visually striking ensemble.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Built in the 18th century, the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso is a prime example of Baroque architecture in Porto. Its facade is characterized by ornate details, including intricate carvings and statues that showcase the Baroque style's emphasis on grandeur and theatricality. The tiles were added in the 1930s by artist Jorge Colaço, (the same man behind the São Bento Station tiles) depict religious scenes, symbols, and motifs, creating a visually striking and culturally rich exterior. The church is dedicated to Saint Ildefonso, a 7th-century Spanish bishop known for his theological writings and devotion to the Virgin Mary. The interior of the church houses altars and artworks dedicated to Saint Ildefonso and other revered figures in Catholicism.