Swallows, a symbol of love & harmony

Did you know that ceramic swallows are emblematic of Portuguese culture? You can find them all over the country!

These migratory birds always return to their point of origin to build their nest; as a result, they have become a symbol of family and home over the years.

Incidentally, their story bears a striking resemblance to the waves of emigration that occurred in Portugal during the 20^th century.

But the similarities don’t end there. Swallows are known for keeping the same mate their whole lives. As such, they are closely associated with love, loyalty, and fidelity – all values that are very present and respected in Portuguese families. In fact, it is not uncommon to see couples exchange these craft works when their relationships are fragile or unstable. You can also see the birds hanging in Portuguese houses, acting as talismans for harmony and prosperity.