Deruta is a small hill town near Perugia in Umbria. It is famous for its fine ceramics which are exported all over the world. The local clay was found to be good for ceramics and production began in the early Middle Ages.
The local industry hit its peak in the 15th and early 16th centuries when the local ‘maiolica’ style became popular. Deruta, Gubbio and Urbino continue to produce the finest Italian maiolica.
As you might expect the town is well supplied with shops selling these gorgeous ceramics, starting at the entrance. We were sorely tempted by one of the beautiful painted tables, but we moved on.
The town is lovely and we were surprised to find it almost deserted in late May. The wet, cool weather probably had something to do with it. Ceramics are everywhere, waiting for buyers.
The shops all look wonderful, how do you choose?
A couple of shops offer a more modern style.
In many shops we visited we found people working on their designs. We were particularly taken by a lovely signora who was painting these plates.
When fired they would look like this.
She had lots of stunning pieces in her shop.
We bought a small clock.
The centre of town was very quiet.
There are some marvellous old buildings.
Narrow streets to explore.
We had lunch at this tiny place run by a widow who told us about her life in Deruta. Her little cafe was once their butcher shop run by her husband. They had no children and there was nobody to take over so she turned it into a cafe so she could continue to come in every day. We were happy that we chose her cafe.
There is an excellent panoramic point offering great views over the countryside below.
Deruta is a beautifully presented town. I loved all the pots with flowers.
On the way out I spotted this little girl.
…and this plaque.
…and these steps leading up to the town.
If you need a gorgeous maiolica ceramic, go to Deruta. Even if you don’t, it is a delightful town to visit.