Michael Portillo's Travel Diaries

Michael carries on his Lisbon adventures by taking part in a hands‑on workshop at a renowned historic ceramic factory. There, he creates a personalised tile using the distinctive Portillo style in a workshop housed in a 280‑year‑old traditional decorative pottery workshop.

The programme is an episode that follows Michael as he carries on with his adventures around Lisbon. It presents a snapshot of his journey, keeping the focus on the experiences he seeks out while exploring the Portuguese capital. The format is that of a typical series episode, centred on a single, self‑contained activity that fits into his broader travel narrative. In this particular segment Michael finds himself at a decorative ceramic factory that has been in operation for 280 years. While there, he takes the opportunity to design his own tile, applying a style that is described as uniquely Portillo. The activity blends his personal creative impulse with the historic craft traditions of the workshop, allowing him to leave a personal mark on a centuries‑old setting. The factory itself, with its three‑century‑long history, provides a backdrop that underscores the contrast between old‑world techniques and Michael’s contemporary approach. By working within the distinctive Portillo aesthetic, he creates a piece that reflects both the heritage of the establishment and his own individual flair. Overall, the episode captures Michael’s hands‑on involvement in tile design, highlighting how his Lisbon adventure leads him to engage directly with local craftsmanship. It showcases a moment where travel, art and history intersect, all within the confines of a single, memorable visit to the historic ceramic workshop.