talavera

Talavera is a term that can refer to several related geographic locations, artistic traditions, and cultural references, most notably a city in Spain, a style of pottery, and a region in Mexico.

Talavera de la Reina is a municipality in the province of Toledo, Castile-La Mancha, Spain. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River, it has a population of roughly 200,000 inhabitants, making it the fifth‑largest city in the Autonomous Community. Historically a center of trade and agriculture, the city expanded in the 20th century through textile manufacturing and logistics. It is known for its annual fairs, the Festival of Saint Peter, and the nearby historic sites of the kingdom of Toledo.

Talavera pottery, also called Talavera de Puebla, is a distinguished form of tin‑glazed earthenware that originated in the 16th century. The craft was introduced by Spanish settlers who combined European techniques with indigenous Mexican designs, eventually establishing a regulated production center in Puebla. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, authentic Talavera pieces must meet strict criteria concerning material, glaze composition, and hand‑painting methods. The motifs often feature floral patterns, geometric borders, and religious iconography, and the ware is exported worldwide as a collectible art form.

The name also appears in other contexts, such as the Talavera District in the Mexican state of Jalisco and various streets, institutions, and sports clubs that adopt the historic name. In each usage, Talavera evokes a blend of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and regional identity.