Today is national Azulejo Day, celebrated annually on May 6th, dedicated to honouring the country's iconic tin-glazed ceramic tiles, or azulejos - officially recognised to promote the preservation of this unique cultural heritage, the day highlights five centuries of artistic tradition, covering churches, palaces, and city streets. Key Details About Portuguese Azulejos: - Significance: Introduced in the early 16th century, azulejos are a defining element of Portuguese architecture. - Blue and White: While colored tiles exist, the famous blue and white style was heavily influenced by Chinese porcelain and Dutch exports in the 17th century. - Where to See Them: Highlights include the National Tile Museum in Lisbon (housed in a former convent), Porto's São Bento Railway Station, and the Chapel of Souls. - Celebration: The day encourages visiting, appreciating, and protecting these artistic treasures from theft and neglect - recent theft concerns But what is the origin of the word 'azulejo'?

Our colleague Em McGowan shared this in 'Share and Care Portugal' this morning. Great information, food for thought, sobering yet worthy of consideration... (NB - she has shared this information from a Warren Wichman who I assume is American, there there is work to do to ensure these documents have relevance in Portugal. It is work in progress. And while we figure it out, there are clearly some good pointers here). "This information is for those of you who don’t have your affairs in order... - Make sure all bank accounts have direct beneficiaries. The beneficiary need only go to the bank with your death certificate and an ID of their own. - TOD = Transfer On Death deed if you own a home. Completing this document and filing it with the court saves your heirs thousands. This document allows you to transfer ownership of your home to your designee. All they need to do is take their ID and your Death Certificate and they will then have the deed signed over. Doing this will avoid the home having to go through probate. - Living Will: Allows one to put in writing exactly what you want done in the event you cannot speak for yourself when it comes to healthcare decisions. - Durable Power of Attorney: Allows one to designate a person to make legal decisions if one is no longer competent to do so. - Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document allows one to designate someone to make healthcare decisions for their person. - Last Will and Testament: Designates to whom personal belongings will go too. - Funeral Planning Declaration: States one’s wishes as far as disposition of the body and the service/s.