Caltagirone Ceramics

Caltagirone ceramics: a thousand-year-old heritage

Ceramic production in Caltagirone dates back to the Arab-Norman period, when glazing and decoration techniques began to evolve into a true artistic language. Over the centuries, master potters have passed down their knowledge, secrets, and styles, making the city an international reference point for ceramic art.

Colors and symbols of Sicily

The typical colors of Caltagirone ceramics—the blue of the sea, the yellow of the sun, the green of nature, and the red of the earth—visually recount Sicily. Floral motifs, geometric elements, Moor’s heads, and Mediterranean landscapes decorate plates, vases, tiles, and decorative objects, transforming each piece into a fragment of the island’s identity.

The famous Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte

An undisputed symbol of the city, the Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, with its 142 steps entirely decorated with majolica tiles, is a sight unlike any other in the world. Each step has a different motif which, together with the others, forms an extraordinary visual narrative. During the summer celebrations, the staircase is illuminated by traditional “lumere” (lights), creating a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors from all over the world.

The artisan workshops: the beating heart of the city

One of the unmissable experiences for visitors to Caltagirone is to visit the workshops of the master potters. Here you can observe the various stages of production up close: from modeling the clay to drying, from hand decoration to final glazing. Many workshops also offer workshops and short courses, ideal for those who want to take home an authentic and personal souvenir.

Buy authentic Caltagirone ceramics

The streets of the historic center and the stairway are lined with shops and studios where you can buy unique pieces. Whether it’s classic Moor’s heads, stylized nativity scenes, or decorative tiles, each object tells the story of a tradition that continues to evolve. For visitors, it’s the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of authentic Sicily.

Why visit Caltagirone today

In addition to ceramics, Caltagirone offers a rich Baroque architectural heritage, museums dedicated to the applied arts, and a welcoming atmosphere typical of Sicilian villages. It is also an ideal destination for slow itineraries, off the beaten tourist track, in line with the growing appreciation of villages and “Sicily in winter.”