2. The clay pits in the Burgio area were already in use in the 15th century, although clay was principally used for bricks and other construction materials. The objects produced were exported to nearby cities, which lead many famous artists, such as the Ferrero di Giuliana, to set up their own production in Burgio. In 1564 some inhabitants of Caltagirone who had come to the city to sell their ceramics began to take up residence in the area and eventually created a colony.. Burgio, St.Maria’s Convent delle Grazie dei Padri Riformati author: Enzo Brai

3. The first master potters from Caltagirone who moved to the city were Matteo Maurici, Antonio Merlo and his son Giacomo, Giovanni and Nicola Maurici. In 1597, the latter decided to sell everything and move to Burgio, giving rise to the custom of purchasing terracotta vases from local manufacturers in order to glaze them, paint them and sell them elsewhere.

4. Bricks from Burgio were used both as decorations in flooring and to face steeples, as can been seen from the bell towers of many Sicilian churches, noble buildings and private dwellings. The epidemics of the 19th century and competition from Naples and Vietri on the sea lead to the closing of many shops, although the high level production of choice majolica flooring remained signific ant. Burgio, St. Vito’s ceramics Statue

5. In any case, local resources stimulated the development of a new series of activities related to the processing of local stone. The pairing of stone and majolica was immediate: processed stone became the base for transport and support of vases, bummuli and quartare.

9. decorated tiles

10. Realized by Guttuso Luciana IV C Liceo Scientifico E. Majorana di Scordia