From the art of ceramics to master glassmakers

At the heart of this art is Faenza, located on the Via Emilia, in the very heart of Romagna. It is no coincidence that the term ‘faïence’ is still used in some European regions as a synonym for majolica.

For centuries, the secrets of shapes and glazes have been passed down in its historic workshops, resulting in products bearing the DOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) certification mark. Events such as Argillà and Buongiorno Ceramica! bear witness to the vitality of this tradition.

The history and evolution of ceramics are showcased at the MIC – Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche and the Museo Carlo Zauli, which are true international landmarks.

In Imola, the art of ceramics is preserved in the mediaeval and Renaissance collections of the Rocca Sforzesca and Palazzo Tozzoni, while the ‘G. Bucci’ Museum showcases more contemporary forms of expression.

In Cesena, the production of traditional decorations and of the traditional terracotta pan for the famous piadina stands out, with Montetiffi serving as a historic production centre.

In Rimini, Montescudo and Montefiore Conca, ancient workshops producing artistic ceramics and majolica survive, safeguarding traditional know-how.

In Ferrara, one can encounter the tradition of graffito ceramics, which is now being revived using the same techniques and creative skills as in the past.

In the Bologna area, the craft draws on local, Faenza and Sicilian traditions, with a long history of producing handmade terracotta.

Travelling along the Via Emilia, one reaches Modena and the area of Sassuolo, Vignola and Castelnuovo Rangone, where the tradition of decorative tiles is showcased at the Spezzano Ceramics Museum and at the Ducal Palace in Sassuolo.

In Reggio Emilia, Ars Canusina® was founded, inspired by the decorative motifs of Romanesque art: unique pieces ranging from ceramic plates to glass picture frames, from majolica stoves to mirrors.

In the Bologna area, there is also a strong tradition of blown glass, which is used for the restoration of Gothic cathedrals and for the design of new stained-glass windows.

In the workshops of Modena, Carpi and San Felice sul Panaro, master glassmakers of yesteryear create works of great artistic value, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition.