These ceramic tiles in Spain and Portugal tell the story of globalization

Elaborately painted tiles, called azulejos, adorn churches, palaces, train stations, and sidewalks.

The tiles tell the story of centuries of cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and political power in Iberia .

The term azulejo (derived from the Arabic al-azulayj meaning "small polished stone") came into use.

Whether you're tracing the geometric patterns of the Moorish zellij in Granada , strolling through the tiled courtyards of Seville , or marveling at Lisbon 's murals in train stations, each azulejo is a testament to the enduring connections between past and present, local and global. This article originally appeared in print under the headline " Centuries of Trade Reflected in Ceramic Tiles .".