The ceramic craft tradition of Lastra derives primarily from the centuries-old craft of Montelupo.
During the Renaissance, Montelupo Fiorentino was in fact one of the most important ceramic centres in Italy and current Europe.
There are workshops in both municipalities still today.
The production of handmade ceramic pieces decorated with Hispanic-Moorish motifs (blue and green) began in the late 13th century. The number of kilns then steadily grew over the following three centuries.
Around the mid-15th century Montelupo’s techniques and know-how spread throughout Italy, due to local craftsmen who went to work in other cities.
The gradual and relentless decline of the ceramic production began in the late 17th century. By the end of the 20th century, it had stopped all together.
