Caltagirone ceramic "Moorish Heads" are a unique artistic tradition deeply rooted in Sicilian culture, born from legend and becoming an icon. These head-shaped ceramic decorations are famous for adorning the facades of the city's houses and represent an important symbol of the culture and history of Caltagirone and Sicily.
They have been recognized worldwide as a symbol of style and trend, illustrating humanity's ability to shape earth and create emotions through art. The Moorish heads of Caltagirone are an example of how tradition and art can be preserved and valued for future generations.
The Legend
The legend of the Moorish heads tells of a beautiful maiden who, during the period of Moorish domination in Sicily in Kalsa, spent her days tending to the flowers and plants on her balcony. One day, a young Moor, struck by the maiden's beauty, declared his love, and she reciprocated. But the young man had a family in the East, and the maiden, betrayed and enraged, killed him. To remember her lost love, the maiden cut off the young man's head and turned it into a vase, in which she planted a basil sprout.
The choice of basil was not random; in fact, this plant had an aura of sacredness and represented the herb of kings. The maiden placed the Moorish head-shaped vase on her balcony and tended to it daily with her tears.
The neighbors, filled with the scent of basil and enviously eyeing the plant maturing in that peculiar Moorish head-shaped vase, had terracotta vases made for themselves, replicating the features of the one lovingly cared for by the maiden.
What is the meaning of the Moorish Heads?
The Moorish Heads, therefore, can be considered as a symbol of love, passion, and devotion. These sculptures have become an integral part of Sicilian artisanal tradition and are widely used as decorative objects, souvenirs, and symbolic gifts.
Beyond their aesthetic beauty and romantic legend, the Moorish heads also represent an important cultural heritage of Sicily. Their artisanal production is a true icon of the city of Caltagirone and represents an important artistic treasure for all of Sicily.
Currently, they are considered true works of art, decorative design elements used to embellish outdoor spaces such as balconies, gardens, terraces, and to elegantly furnish interiors.
