Museo della Ceramica

The Museo della Ceramica occupies the former stable wing of the Castello Episcopio in Grottaglie. Its collection of about 500 works traces local ceramics from the eighth century BC to the present, linking archaeological finds with the town's continuing craft tradition.

Why it matters

Grottaglie is known for the continuity of its pottery production. The museum brings together municipal collections, private gifts and archaeological material to show how local clay-working developed over time. Its setting within the archbishop's former castle adds the town's ecclesiastical and civic history to the story of the craft.

What to notice

Eleven rooms present vessels and pottery from different periods. Everyday bowls, jars and storage vessels show forms shaped by practical use; maiolica displays the decorative possibilities of tin glaze. Archaeological material demonstrates the antiquity of pottery-making in the area. The collection also includes contemporary works associated with Grottaglie's ceramics tradition and a fototeca documenting the objects and craft.

Context and history

The museum was founded on 22 December 1999. It occupies the south-eastern wing of Castello Episcopio, where former stables were adapted as galleries. The castle served as a stronghold and residence of the archbishops of Taranto before becoming municipal property. Grottaglie's Quartiere delle Ceramiche below the castle preserves the workshops that continue the local production represented in the museum.