Embark on a tour where you and your group can explore the Bordaliana Route in Caldas da Rainha. This tour is all about getting to know the art and genius of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, arguably, the greatest Portuguese artist of the XIX century.
He was the founder, in Caldas da Rainha, of what would now be called a “ceramic arts startup”. Bordalo’s factory produced original and creative objects (utilitarian and/or decorative) that were a game changer in the cultural and industrial landscapes of the day. Some of those pieces became no less national icons – to this day: “Zé Povinho” is the best example.
Learn about Bordalo´s work, a celebration of his legacy, in many different places throughout the city, in street art form. It includes human scale ceramic pieces portraying characters that represent different social types and roles of the day (in most cases, with a little touch of Bordalo´s famous humor) and also many curious pieces portraying animals. Let´s get to know them in detail.
In this tour, we will feel the presence of ceramic art in local buildings´ façades and balustrades that create a real blast of mastery and colour in this city.
Following the footsteps of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro´s heritage, we not only dive into ceramics, an art felt all throughout the city, but also make sure you get a real feel of the character and history of Caldas da Rainha, a city that, following its long-standing and rich arts tradition, is now a UNESCO Creative City.
In front of Caldas da Rainha Tourism Office
