Mary Ann's Blog
Sicilian Tiles
September 1, 2026
Colorful handmade tiles made in Sicily form the backdrop for many kitchens and tell stories from folklore through their designs.
In the thirteenth century, the Spaniards of Aragon were the first to refer to colorful Sicilian ceramic objects as “maiolica” because the firing and glazing techniques used to create these pieces were similar to those used on the Balearic island of Majorca.
Many different types of items can be crafted, distinguished by their color patterns, shapes, and painted motifs. However, the most popular and fascinating ceramic objects are undoubtedly the Moor’s Heads, or Teste di Moro.
The legend of the Moor’s Head dates back to the eleventh century, during the Moorish domination of Sicily, and, as with most legends, Cupid is once again to blame (or credit).
One day, a beautiful and honorable young woman living in the Kalsa, the Arabic district of Palermo, was tending the plants and flowers on the balcony of her house, as was her custom. Suddenly, a Moorish merchant passing by fell in love with the beautiful young woman, who immediately returned his affection.
Their love affair continued until she discovered that he already had a wife and children waiting for him in his native land. Suddenly driven mad by jealousy, she devised a way one night, while he was sleeping, to make him stay with her forever.
She therefore cut off his head and cleverly decided to use it as a vase in which to grow her beautiful basil plant.
People passing beneath her balcony began to notice her flourishing basil plant and became envious of how lush it was. They started crafting colorful clay pots shaped like heads, hoping to possess the same magical green thumb.
More From the Blog
Mary Ann's Blog
Apple Season!
Mary Ann's Blog
Straight From the Garden
