The Tale of Passion and Revenge Behind the Moor's Head Souvenir
Any time you visit Sicily the question inevitably pops up: What is the story behind those painted, colourful ceramic heads? Testa Di Moro or the Moors heads are a symbol of Sicilian culture and handicrafts that have captured the attention of people all over the world. These elegant hand-painted ceramic vases portray the face of a man wearing a turban, a vision of the East, and a woman with a crown, both adorned with jewelry, flowers, and citrus fruits.
Story 1: The legend behind the Moors heads is a story of passion, betrayal, jealousy, and revenge. During the time of Moor domination in Sicily, a beautiful girl in the Arab quarter of Kalsa fell in love with a Moor who would soon return to the East where he had a wife and children waiting for him. Overwhelmed by jealousy, the girl killed the Moor in his sleep and used his head as a vase to plant a bud of basil. The basil grew luxuriantly, and the heady scent caused the envy of the girl’s neighbors, who immediately ordered ceramic vases with the same features as the Moor’s Head. This began a tradition that is still in use today.
Another story suggests that the Moors heads represent the impossible love of a young couple, one Sicilian and the other a young Arab. When their love affair was discovered, both were cruelly punished by beheading. Their heads were then turned into vases and hung as warnings on a balcony. This is why the ceramic heads are always made in pairs, in memory of the two young lovers who were murdered together.
Today, the Moors heads are among the most popular souvenirs that tourists can buy in Sicily. They are available in many different variations, from bright colors to a single color of white or black, and in various sizes. The Moors heads are a testament to the rich history and culture of Sicily and serve as a beautiful decoration and a reminder of the legends and stories that have been passed down through generations.
How the Testa Di Moro are Made
1 - The first step in creating these anthropomorphic-shaped vases involves using the majolica technique to shape the clay into various forms.
2 - Once shaped, the pieces are left to dry and expel the water contained within before undergoing a 13-hour firing process.
3 - After the first firing, a white glaze is applied to all the pieces. Next, skilled decorators use their imagination and traditional techniques to create beautiful designs.
4 - Finally, the vases are fired a second time to achieve their distinctive luster and bright colors, highlighting the intricate details of each piece.
Where to Buy Testa Di Moro?
The best places to find them are in the towns and cities where they are produced, such as Santo Stefano di Camastra, a town on the north coast of Sicily known for its ceramics. In this town, you can visit local workshops and buy Moor's Heads directly from the artisans who make them.
Caltagirone is known as the land of skilled Sicilian ceramic craftsmen, and its Arabic-derived name "Qal'at al Ghiran," meaning "Fortress of the Vases," attests to its long-standing tradition in this art form.
Another popular destination to purchase Moor's Heads is the city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily. The historic markets, such as the Ballarò Market, Vucciria Market, and Capo Market, are excellent places to find these ceramic vases. You can also find them in many souvenir shops and boutiques in the city.
Other towns in Sicily that are known for their ceramic production and where you can purchase Moor's Heads include Sciacca, and Taormina.
Want to learn more about Sicily? Read our in depth guides to make the most of your time there!
Having your own White Lotus 2 Moments in Sicily at Villa Tasca
The White Lotus Hotel: San Domenico Palace Hotel
Beyond Palermo's Tourist Trail
Unleash Your Inner Archaeologist: Delve into the Valley of the Temples in Sicily
Discover the Magic of the Greek Theatre in Taormina, Sicily