Caldas da Rainha: the city of Phallic ceramics in Portugal - when art and humor meet Caldas da Rainha

Caldes de Reina: the ceramic city that leaves no one indifferent!

Caldes de Reina, a small and charming city in the center of Portugal, was nicknamed "the capital of Phallic ceramics" and for good reason! If you ever thought your coffee mug was a bit boring, it's time to get to know the art that adds a lot of wink to history, life and cuisine.

Rafael Bordello Pineiro - the unashamed ceramic artist

To understand the unusual ceramic phenomenon of Caldes de Reina, you need to get to know Rafael Bordello Pinheiro, the man who started it all. In the 19th century, Raphael realized that ceramics is not just boring tableware, and began to incorporate sharp and blunt humor into it. Yes, he wasn't afraid to bring a little satire into the kitchen.

Bulbul humor in ceramics in Portugal? Yes, please!

Raphael was a protest artist - no less. He used male genitalia to convey critical messages against conservative society and the church. Yes, just as you imagine: plates and bowls with male genitalia that were more than dinnerware - they were tangible and funny arrows of criticism.

When art becomes tourism

Today, the phallic ceramics are no longer just a way to convey criticism, but also a center of attraction for tourists from all over the world. Tourists come to Caldes de Reina to purchase unique souvenirs: pots, jugs and cookies in the shape of the male genital organ. Yes, you can take home a cookie that no one will soon forget.

Phallic ceramic tradition - not what you thought

If you thought it was just a gimmick, think again. The phallic ceramics are related to ancient Portuguese traditions where phallic symbols were a symbol of abundance and fertility. So when you bring home a plate in the shape of a genital, you are actually preserving an age-old folk tradition. Yes, yes, exactly like that.

Why only ceramics in Portugal?

Caldes de Reina took it one step further - not only ceramics, but also cookies! With such shapes that even your grandmother will not be able to remain indifferent. Because who said a cookie can't be the talk of the day?

The surprise that awaits you in

In Caldes de Reina you will find ceramic shops that offer these special motifs, and you will be happy to discover that they are both really beautiful and really funny. An experience unlike anything you've ever known, that leaves you with a funny story for everyone you meet.

A gift that cannot be ignored in

Want an original gift? A coffee mug in the shape of a male genital organ, or a bowl of soup with a wink - these are things that no one will remain indifferent to. And so you can give your friends some humor as well as some of the history and art of Caldes de Reina.

Summary

Caldes de Reina is not only a place to meet unique ceramics, but also a place where you can understand how history, art and humor meet. So if you're looking for an extraordinary experience and a gift you won't forget - this is the place for you!

See you at Caldes de Reina, and remember - life is short, so why not laugh a little and bring home a story that won't soon be forgotten? 😄

See you in Caldes de Reina! And if you're looking for an unforgettable souvenir, you'll know where to go. 😄

Nice to meet you, I'm Ilanit, owner of ILANITRAVEL, a Portugal travel specialist. I accompany families, couples, and individuals in planning their perfect vacation.

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