The event aims to reflect on the present and future of ceramics, value heritage, and promote the sharing of experiences around this artistic and economic activity. The opening session was attended by the Mayor of Barcelos, Mário Constantino Lopes, Councillor Pedro Ferreira, and the Chairman of the General Assembly of AptCVC, Manuel Vitorino.
Mário Constantino Lopes highlighted the link between ceramics, craftsmanship, and tourism, emphasizing the importance of these activities for Barcelos' identity. He noted the inscription of «Figurado de Barcelos» in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage as official recognition of the authenticity and cultural relevance of this expression.
The Mayor reaffirmed the Municipality's commitment to supporting artisans, acknowledging the ingenuity and creativity of the people of Barcelos. Meanwhile, Manuel Vitorino emphasized the role of the Ceramic Cities and Towns network in valuing heritage and promoting economic growth in the sector, advocating for strengthened cooperation among municipalities.
“"He advocated for strengthening cooperation between municipalities, through a joint work strategy that allows for enhancing ceramic activity and preserving living heritage, built by people and for the communities and territories where it is located."
The opening session also included a musical interlude by students from the Barcelos Conservatory. The proceedings continued with the presentation «Who's Who?», during which participating municipalities shared the history and current perspectives of clay and ceramics in their respective territories. In addition to Barcelos, Albergaria-a-Velha, Alcobaça, Aveiro, Condeixa-a-Nova, Covilhã, Fundão, Ílhavo, Leiria, Mafra, Oliveira do Bairro, Porto de Mós, Tondela, Viana do Castelo, Vila Franca do Campo, Vila Nova de Poiares, and Vila Verde are participating.
Tomorrow's program, on October 24, includes the General Assembly of Ceramic Cities and Towns at the Noble Hall of the Barcelos Municipal Chamber, followed by visits to the Pottery Museum and the Medieval Tower. In the afternoon, participants will experience Barcelos' ceramic production firsthand with visits to the Traditional Pottery and a Figurado Workshop.
