The theme chosen for the first edition of the event in 2007 was the 'laggioni' or ceramic lining tiles, most notably used to adorn the Moorish palaces of Spain.

The event also saw the opening of an itinerary; the Artists' Walk from Albissola Marina to Albisola Superiore.

The making of maiolica in Liguria began in earnest in the 16th century thanks to a refinement of all stages of the production process.

Large table services for the courts of Europe's aristocratic families and huge monumental pharmacy vases soon became must haves. Today, there are many fine maiolica workshops still in existence and they are an impressive site.

www.festivaldellamaiolica.it

Little has really changed in the production techniques and the finished products are just as eye catching as they were as four centuries ago.

Do visit these two museums in Genoa to find out more about maiolica in Liguria.

Museo di Sant’Agostino: Piazza Sarzano 35r
www.museosantagostino.it

Musei di Strada Nuova - Palazzo Tursi, via Garibaldi 9
www.museidistradanuova.it