What to see in Grottaglie, the capital of ceramics: the Ceramics Quarter, the Episcopio Castle, the artisan workshops and how to get there from Taranto.
History
Grottaglie is universally recognised as the Italian capital of artistic ceramics. Perched on a hill of the Murge plateau, a few kilometres from Taranto, it owes its name to the many caves carved into the ravines surrounding the town, where humankind has found shelter since antiquity.
The ceramic tradition has medieval roots: in the fourteenth century, with the first medieval settlement, the quarter known as "li Camenn're" — the chimneys, that is the kilns — arose along the San Giorgio ravine, and it is still the beating heart of the ceramic art. Already in 1463 a document of the Royal Customs of Taranto attested the production and trade of Grottaglie majolica.
In 2025 the Puglia Region officially recognised Grottaglie as a City of Art, crowning a centuries-long artisan history.
What to see
The heart of the town is the Ceramics Quarter, an area unique in Italy entirely devoted to this art: along the little streets carved into the rock open some fifty workshops and studios, many set in ancient underground oil mills, where the master potters shape the clay before visitors' eyes.
Dominating the quarter is the Episcopio Castle, an imposing medieval fortress (fourteenth century), once the residence of the archbishops of Taranto, with its keep rising over 28 metres. Inside it houses the Ceramics Museum, Puglia's most important of its kind, with over 400 artefacts telling more than 2,700 years of history.
Among the most iconic creations: the "Whites of Grottaglie" with their unmistakable palette (moss green, ochre, blue and manganese), the great capasoni for storing wine and oil, and the pumi, auspicious buds that decorate Salento's balconies.
Did you know…
- Grottaglie is the only centre in Italy with an entire quarter devoted to ceramic production.
- The 'pumi' bring good luck — but only if received as a gift.
- The historic centre is dotted with murals themed on manga, anime and cartoons.
- The Ceramics Museum documents over 2,700 years of the potter's tradition.
Practical information
| Hours | The Ceramics Quarter and historic centre can be visited at any time. Episcopio Castle and Museum: check opening times. |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Visiting the quarter and the historic centre is free. The Ceramics Museum charges entry. |
| Accessibility | The historic centre and the Ceramics Quarter have alleys, stairways and uneven paving. |
| Getting there | From Taranto: about 22 km along the SS7 (Appia) or the A14 motorway, Taranto exit. Also by train. |
Not to miss
★ PremiumFasanoCeramiche
📍 Via Francesco Crispi, 6, Grottaglie
One of the district's best-known workshops, also ships abroad.
★ PremiumBottega Ceramica Di Fasano Antonio
📍 Via Caravaggio, 7, Grottaglie
Workshop in full view, wide choice of shapes and colours, prices for every budget.
★ PremiumCeramiche Artistiche Pinca
📍 Via Francesco Crispi, 63, Grottaglie
A workshop carved into the rock, unique pieces and vibrant colours.
★ PremiumCeramiche Artistiche Monteforte Stefano
📍 Via Leone XIII, 5, Grottaglie
Family-run, possibility to visit the workshop upstairs.
Addresses for guidance: names, management and hours may change. Always check before visiting.
Full listing
Indicative list compiled from public sources. To be featured among our partners, contact us.
Tips for your visit
- Step into the workshops and watch the masters at the wheel: many gladly show the stages of the craft.
- For an authentic experience, book a ceramics workshop and make your own piece.
- Look for the cartoon-themed murals hidden among the historic centre's alleys.
- Visit in late July for the 'Wine and Music' event in the Ceramics Quarter.