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That this small town is almost entirely dedicated to the creation of beautiful ceramics since age immemorial is known by aficionados the world over. However, many who come to purchase the wares often only see the large modern showrooms, workshops and kilns that lie at the foot of the old medieval town up on its hill.
A visit to the town as well is worthwhile next time you’re in area. Besides the Ceramic Museum (not to be missed) you would imagine you were in any other beautiful little Umbrian town, if it weren’t for the fact that most of the town’s signage is done in…what else?… traditionally decorated and colored Deruta ceramic tiles.
The store sign to Mr. and Mrs. Cherubini’s pharmacy (can’t miss it, it’s the only one) is done with tiles, naturally. The local alimentari that sells local foods and wine also has a lovely decorative element adorning its door. The same goes for the municipio (town hall) and the vigili urbani (town police), and many others.
Mind you signage isn’t the only interesting thing in Deruta (the church and the local public garden…wow, notes coming soon), but one last sign certainly needs to be pointed out. It is this one of the local high school. A fine arts high school that specializes in… you guessed it …ceramics. Good to see Deruta thinking about the future of its tradition too.
– Contributed by GB (see bio), Editor, Italian Notebook.
The church in Deruta, Madonna del Bagno, is one of the most fascinating I have seen. Anywhere. Ever. I look forward to your Note on it. Such an interesting town.
look forward to your charming snippets can’t afford to return to Italy this year for my third trip so your photos and commentary are greatly savoured! thank you AND arthur schwartz XOX
I’m glad you pointed this out as so many people do just what you said – stop along the road and buy their souvenirs and never go up to the charming town above!
My husband and I and 2 friends were in Umbria to celebrate the millenium in 2000. One of day trips was to Deruta. My husband showed me this large 20 x 30 picture of 2 women (1 nude) and said do you like it? He proceded to buy it without thinking how he was going to get on the plane. We carried it on and flight attendants nice enough to put in front storage. Luckily, because when we got back to the states our luggage didn’t. It hangs in a place of honor and gets many compliments. Anyone can buy a souvenir pitcher!!! The town was beautiful.
Thank you for this. I love Deruta and wish I could afford to buy many pieces. I have a few. I have to find bargains but they are worth every cent. Would love to have been an apprentice to this and use my art skill and love of art to make something beautiful like this. It also shows me a little insight into my Dad. He was born in the US but with everything I learn about Italy and the people & customs I see him. I see where his carpentry skills, art skills and even mannerisms all come from. It helps me understand him and who he is much better. It is amazing how someone can grow up so many miles from their family’s native country but still possess the same traits. He was able to go there but I haven’t been and so do want to go.
Thank you for this info, we will be in Umbria this fall and will definitely make a point of visiting. Bringing back pieces are the only problem,Last time I hand carried a bowl for my daughter. When she moved it was broken, they asked(the movers) how much to replace it. I told them $ 1200.00 Plus, Airfare to Italy first then…. They laughed and gave her $200. Oh well !