Between art and passion: le Ceramiche del Castello

The decorations and colors of the ceramics of Massa Lubrense reflect the unique atmosphere of the place. In addition to being appreciated for their beauty, ceramics tell stories of tradition, culture and passion for local crafts.

About the creation of local ceramics, we had the privilege of interviewing Nina Palomba, a talented self-taught artisan in the sector, who will share with us her passion and experience.

Where did the idea of a hand-painted pottery shop come from?

For years I realized my passion for ceramics in a corner of the house, at first just as a hobby. However, my constant desire to learn has turned this interest into a full-time profession. Despite the difficulties encountered in the past, my daughter Valentina urged me not to give up, and together we initially opened an online shop on Amazon and then a personal e-commerce. Afterwards, we had the opportunity to open a shop in the center of Massa Lubrense, opened in August 2022.

What does the name “Le Ceramiche del Castello” refer to?

The name of my shop, “Le Ceramiche del Castello”, evokes memories of my childhood related to the Aragonese Castle of Massa Lubrense, where I spent most of my time. My parents ran the castle estate, and my younger sister and I were often there with them. Among the games we invented to pass the time, there was to look for pieces of pottery in the garden, which with our imagination we transformed into dolls to play with. Behind this name lie not only the memories of my childhood, but also the constant support and encouragement of my parents in pursuing my dreams.

How is the craft activity linked to the culture of the territory?

In our selection of products, we offer several options that recall the traditions of Campania. Among the various objects, many belong to the past, such as containers for anchovies, traditional bells and ball-holders. These items arouse a lot of curiosity for their unusual shapes. The renowned Neapolitan horn is proposed in various colors and sizes. In addition, our store includes several items decorated with lemon motifs, the citrus symbol of Massa Lubrense and the Amalfi Coast. When I create new products, I am often inspired by the past, as in the case of the new vintage cups reinterpreted in a modern style.

Quali sono gli articoli che i turisti in visita a Massa Lubrense acquistano come souvenir?

Tourists are not limited to the purchase of specific items in the store, but appreciate the variety of ceramic items, both for outdoor and indoor use. In addition, they are attracted by the idea of buying souvenirs that represent our traditions. Among the most common purchases of tourists visiting the store there are the classic cutting boards and small vases, but do not neglect to take a look at the most modern products, such as the famous Capri hedgehog revisited in a contemporary way.

It is possible to buy directly on the website and via Amazon. So in this way you can ship also your ceramics abroad?

Exactly. We have the ability to ship our items around the world. Also for those who visit our store during holiday we can organize the shipment of items that do not find space in suitcase.

For some years now you have been offering ceramic courses. How do they take place and who are they for?

Pottery courses are held at the shop and are open to both adults and children aged three and over. Each participant has available colors, brushes and other tools. We proceed with the decoration of the tiles according to your taste or following our suggestions. During the course, I explain to the participants the technique of firing ceramics in the oven and how color variations are created during this process. The courses are organized by appointment and last about an hour and a half.

You also had the privilege of being mentioned in the renowned magazine “Vanity Fair”. What was it like to see you in one of the most important and influential magazines worldwide?

It was an indescribable emotion that crowned all our efforts. ” Vanity Fair” has selected us through Amazon, recognizing us as excellence in Italian women’s entrepreneurship and promoting our shop of hand-painted ceramics. In addition, even the famous influencer Valentina Ferragni dedicated a post to us, after buying an oil jug and a cup from our online store.

I have my daughter and my husband to thank. With his experience in the construction industry, my husband provided me with valuable technical advice for my work. The tenacity of my daughter helped me not to abandon my passion.

Web site: leceramichedelcastello.it