HANDICRAFTS
Portugal has a fine tradition of handicrafts, most notably wickerwork, ceramics, embroidery, rugs, copper, brass, wrought iron, woodwork and leather.
Rugs from Arraiolos in the Alentejo are reminders of the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula several centuries ago. Local craftswomen still make them by hand in small workshops, although these high-quality rugs can be purchased in stores all over the country.
Portugal is also popular for its leather goods, which mostly come from sheep and lamb skins. Cows produce a tougher leather that's made into jackets and coats. There are hundreds of shops up and down the country selling leather jackets, coats, gloves, pocketbooks, wallets and many other items.
Filigree jewellery is another best buy in Portugal, particularly from the Minho region in the north, where gold and silver threads are worked into fine, intricately-designed brooches, earrings and pendants.
Madeira is very well-known for its delicate embroidery, wickerwork and fine lace, which is made to the highest standards all over the island.
Portugal also boasts a long-standing tradition in ceramics, most notably the brightly-coloured wall plates and large jugs found at local markets all over the country.