Not only are the Talavera tiles beautiful and colourful, they are also a lesson in history.  As most people would know, the Spanish were great explorers and conquerers of new worlds and in colonising new countries, the Spanish many of their traditions with them. Mexico was one of these countries and was colonised in 1521, gaining independence in 1821.  Over the years, Mexico has embraced many of the Spanish traditions and in particular, in the use of beautiful tiles in and around the Spanish influenced buildings.  These tiles are of course called Talavera and are the handmade, hand painted tiles found decorating stair risers, kitchen splash backs, bathroom walls, outdoor patios, drink coasters, street numbers and feature walls inside and out.  They are a blend of the traditional Spanish tiles and methodology together with Mexicos own indigenous imagery.  The tiles are characterised by beautiful vivid colours. 

While the name Talavera comes from the town of Talavera de la Reina in Spain which was known as the City of Ceramics, Talavera tiles are also well known to be made in Mexico.  They were first made in Puebla in Mexico when the Spanish colonised Mexico because the soil in the area was ideal for making the clay used for ceramics.  The Aztec Empire in Mexico had had a rich history in earthenware but it was only when the Spanish settled that Talavera and the characteristic glazing was used and perfected. Spanish artisans were brought in to manage the adornment of important buildings, with a greater abundance of tiles used on the most important buildings. The tradition that has developed in Mexico is called Talavera Poblana (as distinguished from the Spanish Talavera) is a combination of Spanish and Indigenous (and also Italian) ceramic techniques. 

At Old World Tiles we are fortunate to be able to directly import beautiful authentic products.  We are able to offer all of the tiles on our website as well as some Murals and Bathroom sinks.