Portugal is a land rich in tradition, and in rural areas the skills and artistry of local craftspeople have been passed from generation to generation. Most skills are specific to one locality: pottery is perhaps the only national craft – although with important variations in design and decoration. Craft work is a significant cottage industry, but there is a danger of skills dying out, especially in regions with few visitors. To prevent this, EU funding has been channelled towards promoting the work of artisans to save skills, create employment and retain life in dying villages.

There are plenty of craft shops in the large towns, but the real joy is to stop in tiny villages and discover the spinning and weaving cooperatives formed by women, as in Mértola. See bobbin lacework, watch ceramics in the making, buy jute dolls, and marvel at the basket creations made from leaves of the dwarf fan palm.

The products of some regions have gained national importance. Arraiolos in Alentejo has a centuries-old tradition of rug- and carpet-making which has grown into a major industry; and the hand-embroidered bedspreads of Castelo Branco, which have been made since the 17th century, are also popular throughout Portugal and now in demand by tourists. You will see distinctive hand-painted furniture throughout the Alentejo. Estremoz sells little figurines in its weekend market; Caldas da Rainha is known for its ceramics; while Peniche, also in Estremadura, is famous for lace.

Clay-thrown, handpainted olive dishes, often embellished with the name of the locality, come with a separate nook for discarded olive pits.

Lydia Evans/Apa Publications