Rajola

Rajola is the Catalan word for a tile, a flat piece used to cover surfaces such as floors, walls, façades, and roofs. Most rajoles are ceramic, but the term can also include porcelain, cement-based, glass, and natural stone tiles. They are often glazed to provide color, pattern, and waterproofing.

Manufacture typically involves shaping clay or other materials, drying, firing in a kiln, and applying a glaze. Glazed rajoles offer a protective surface and a wide range of finishes, from glossy to matte. Non-glazed options emphasize texture. Common families include ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles (dense and highly resistant to moisture), cement tiles (often decorative), and glass tiles for surfaces or accents.

Tiles come in various formats, from small mosaics to large slabs, and can be installed with thinset mortar and grout. Layouts range from simple grids to complex patterns, with considerations for water exposure, wear, and thermal movement, especially for outdoor use.

Tilework has deep historical roots in the Mediterranean and the Iberian Peninsula. In Catalan regions, rajoles appear in architecture across centuries, reflecting architectural styles from Roman, Islamic, and modern periods and contributing to interior decoration and public spaces.

Care and maintenance are straightforward: clean with neutral cleaners, seal porous surfaces when appropriate, and replace damaged tiles and grout to maintain performance and appearance.