Besides olive cultivation (from which the ancient name Oleara derives), the income of the inhabitants until a few decades ago was tied to the production of terracotta tiles. The tiles were transported on muleback to Amalfi, from where they were dispatched to various destinations, later known as “Vietri ceramics.”
The characteristic salmon pink color of the “Neapolitan terracotta” was due both to the particular composition of the local clays and to the firing in “tuff” kilns, a very light stone that excellently withstands high temperatures.
The “Neapolitan wind” coming from the west fueled the oxygenation of the kilns, all built with openings facing that direction, and the surrounding mountains guaranteed the supply of wood bundles necessary for firing the clay. The soils for terracotta production derive from the decomposition of feldspars (which are the base of granites) and in their composition contain aluminum silicates, alkaline earth oxides, and iron oxides. It is the latter which, oxidizing during firing, give the tiles their characteristic red color.
Today, of the 15 existing kilns only one remains active: that of the De Martino brothers, who continue to produce “Neapolitan terracotta” following ancient production methods. Their kiln is 450 years old, measures 27 cubic meters, and is sufficient to fire about 500 square meters of tiles. Each production cycle lasts from 22 to 25 days because the leathery hardness (when the water content in the clay has been reduced to 10%) and the white hardness (when the water content is at 3%) of the tiles are achieved through exposure to the sun. Naturally, if it rains the timing extends.
In Ogliara, the oven temperature is controlled by the expert eye of the kiln workers who ensure the constant 950 degrees needed for the material to undergo the correct contraction, melt, and vitrify, thus achieving an increase in mechanical resistance thanks to the elimination of porosity. The color of the tiles inside the kiln is the temperature indicator, and the opening and closing of the 12 vents allow for uniform firing.
Meanwhile, Saint Anthony Abbot, protector of fire, watches over each firing to ensure everything goes as it should. A candle must always be lit for him at every firing. You never know!
