Arraiolos Charming Carpets

The Moorish traditions of Arraiolos continue to inspire the carpets manufactured there today. Teams of embroiders and weavers work for many days, using pure wool in combinations of petit point with more widely spaced cross-stitches. These carpets are some of the most charming items for sale in Portugal. The size of the piece and intricacy of design determine the price, often less than half of what you'd pay in North America.

Centuries of Ceramic and Tile Artistry

Early in Portugal's history, builders learned to compensate for the lack of lumber by perfecting the arts of masonry, stuccoing, and ceramics. All of these were used to construct sturdy, termite-proof buildings. The aesthetic endured in the designs painted on tiles and ceramic plates, vessels, and jugs. Styles from Holland, England, and China later combined to influence a rich tradition of pottery-making. Both new and antique samples of these items can be acquired throughout the country.

Gold and Silver Fine Filigree

Any piece of jewelry advertised in Portugal as "gold" must contain at least 19.2 karats. This purity permits artisans to spin the shining stuff into delicate filigree work with astounding detail. This land of royalty produces jewelry worthy of a queen's dowry at prices more reasonable than one might expect. Jewelry stores are plentiful.

Hand Weaving, Crafts and Art

For centuries, the design and fabrication of lace, rugs, hand knit clothing, wood carvings, and embroidered linens have evolved in homes and workshops throughout Portugal. The best can be called art. From the north to the south, store after store offers regional handcrafts.

Leather Goods in Lisbon

Iberia has always been a land of animal husbandry, bullfighting, and cattle breeding, and Portuguese leather-making is known throughout the world. Jackets, shoes, pocketbooks and wallets are typical items for sale, and the best stores are concentrated in Lisbon.