In 711 the Moors invaded Spain and several decades later they managed to conquer not only Spain, but also southern Portugal. They soon introduce Islam, and in time a Moorish-Spanish culture develops. The domination of the Moor culture, especially in architecture, is clearly seen even today. Visit the Alhambra Palace and witness the walls of beautifully decorated multi-colored tile. By the end of the nineteenth century, the use of cement tilehas become extremely popular among the wealthiest citizens of Barcelona. It is at a time when Art Nouveau is at its peak. Architects and designers alike created unique cement tiles that become increasingly more popular throughout other southern European countries.
The beginning of the twentieth century marks the time when cement tiles begin being utilized throughout Europe and eventually throughout the world. The heyday of the cement tile comes to a sad end in the 1950s as more industrial and cheaper products become available. This marks the age of granite, ceramic and plastic. At the beginning of the twenty-first century, we have seen a resurgence of demand for the cement tile. The demand for authentic and sustainable tiles continues to rise. This renewed enthusiasm came about, in part, due to the concern about the strain on the environment caused by the production of industrially produced products. That is, people were looking for ways to go greener. The materials used in cement tiles are both environmentally sustainable and friendly. More and more designers and consumers alike are utilizing cement tiles with their high quality and decorative elements.
