Patterns of Portugal: A Journey Through Colors, History, Tiles, and Architecture

by Christine Chitnis

A vibrant tour of Portugal, featuring more than 200 photographs that bring to life one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

In this gorgeous book, writer and photographer Christine Chitnis invites you to celebrate the unique, timeless beauty of Portugal through the stunning designs and hues that define Portugal’s countryside, coast, small towns, and cosmopolitan cities.

This collection features over 200 stunning photographs that illustrate the ways that color and pattern are woven into the very fabric of the country’s culture, history, architecture, and traditions. Each section features insightful essays that explore the artistry of azulejos, the colorful ceramic tiles covering much of Portugal's architecture; the intricately embroidered details of traditional lavradeira costumes; the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine, and so much more.

Throughout these vibrant pages, you’ll discover the vivid stories behind each color and pattern, transporting you to the gorgeous fields of Alentejo, the sparkling waters of the Algarve, the busy streets of Lisbon, the lush valleys of the Douro, and beyond.

Genres: Nonfiction, Portugal, Travel, Art, History, Coffee Table Books

288 pages, Hardcover

Published February 6, 2024

About the author

Christine Chitnis is a writer and photographer based in Providence, Rhode Island. The author of four books—including Patterns of India (Clarkson Potter, 2020)—and a contributor to publications including the New York Times, Elle, Martha Stewart Living, Boston Globe and Condé Nast Traveler, Christine has not only earned a reputation as a multi-talented storyteller, but also as a trusted strategist in the lifestyle publishing sector. She is currently at work on her fifth book, Patterns of Portugal (Clarkson Potter).

From book proposals to publicity, Christine helps fellow business owners and creatives translate their unique skills into marketable concepts. Working with first-time authors and seasoned writers alike, her vast network of editorial relationships and publishing experience has helped clients land contracts with respected publishers, features in top tier publications and even prestigious rankings on the New York Times Best Seller list. Christine also brings a practical understanding of book promotion to her projects, helping clients secure sponsored book tours and paid brand collaborations.

In her own work, Christine has long been inspired by the natural world and the craft of local artisans. From childhood summers in Northern Michigan, to the farms and coastline of her home in New England, to exploring the culture of Rajasthan with her husband, Vijay, she enjoys sharing this passion for discovery with her three young children—Vijay, Vikram and Meera.

Visit her at ChristineChitnis.com or on Instagram @christine.chitnis.

Reviews

[Edie Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

When opening these pages you’ll come across a small amount of informative text. But that’s not the focus of this book. You are here for its beautiful photography. Page after page fill your eyes with glorious pictures of an incredible country.

I’ve never been to Portugal. I’d really like to go someday. Reading this gives me even greater motivation.

[Renata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Esse livro foi dado a mim pela minha irmã cósmica; a pessoa com quem quero andar por essas ruas, becos e jardins que essas imagens tão lindas capturaram. Essas páginas funcionaram como um portal - uma entrada mágica para uma dimensão em que estou cercada por vistas exuberantes, esquinas místicas e atmosfera vibrante. Tenho certeza que um dia desses irei mergulhar nesse livro e realmente sair do outro lado, com ela.

[Alyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really loved slipping into this book from to time since I checked it out from the library. My favorite quotes, so to speak, were not words but images. The tiles of Portugal are clay quilts. So lovely. Armchair travel extraordinaire this book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent introduction to the history, architecture, terrain, cuisine, and art of Portugal. I like the way the author formatted the content and the photos are lovely.

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need to do a thorough read through later, but on first turn through, I am in love. The photographs in this book are the perfect representation of Portuguese architecture and culture and the beauty it holds💓

[Cheryl F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. The pages are filled with wonderful photos of Portugal and the description of the areas makes me want to go back and spend a month travelling around. I purchased this in Lisbon because... well, what a great memory of our trip! I thought it was just the a book with lovely pictures but imagine my surprise when I found that it was also a little travel guide. If I hadn't purchased it there I would be booking my ticket now to go see some of the fascinating and charming areas that she highlights. In fact, I may do that anyway!

[Phil Bayly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patterns of Portugal is a portrait of Portugal's rich history of architecture. It explains the blue and white tiles decorating so many facades there. It is a practice that dates back to the Moors who ruled the Iberian Peninsula one-thousand years ago.
Atop Lisbon's seven hills, you can view a carpet of terra-cotta roofs covering homes and businesses below. There are villages in Portugal that date back to prehistoric times. Many histories of buildings in this country are mysteries.
This is a beautifully photographed book that helps tell the story of a timeless land.

[Nicole Bosse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Visually stunning with some great historical context!

[Justyna Walulik]

Beautiful book but there's not much to read there. It's rather an album with plenty of great photos. Very nicely published.

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly, very few patterns!

[Jane Owen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful photos capture the charm of Portugal. The writing seemed random.