Cart
0
Cataplana is a traditional cooking vessel from the Algarve, made of copper, with two concave halves joined by a hinge that close like a clam shell. When closed, it traps steam and aromas, slowly cooking shellfish, fish and meat. It also gives its name to the dish cooked inside it, a symbol of Algarve cuisine.
Origin and history
The origin of the cataplana is lost in time. Today it is an emblem of the Algarve, but some argue for older roots, such as the prussiana, a flatter vessel from the Beira region used by hunters. What is certain is that the copper cataplana became tied to the caldeireiros, the coppersmiths who for centuries made stills, pans and other utensils.
A handmade copper cataplana is hard to find today, because it takes much longer to make than industrial aluminium or stainless steel versions. In Loulé, the council has revived the craft with the Coppersmiths’ Workshop, part of the Loulé Criativo network.
How it is made
The coppersmith cuts the copper sheets and softens the metal in the fire. Then, with the hammer, he shapes and hardens the sheet until each half takes on its curved form. The piece is scrubbed with sand to remove impurities, refined with further rounds of hammering and finally polished. The two halves are joined by a hinge and side clasps.
Coppersmith Nuno Palma, who learned from masters such as Analide Carmo, works at the Coppersmiths’ Workshop in Loulé and is a rare case of a young craftsman keeping this technique alive.
How it is used
In a cataplana, the ingredients are layered, as in a caldeirada, and the lid closes tightly. Unlike a tagine, which has a small opening, the cataplana closes completely, trapping the steam and concentrating flavours and aromas. It cooks over a low heat and is brought to the table closed, to be opened in front of the guests. Copper conducts heat very well.
Where it comes from
The cataplana comes from the Algarve and is associated above all with Loulé and its coppersmith tradition. Nuno Palma works at the Coppersmiths’ Workshop in the centre of Loulé, where he also runs copperworking workshops.
Where to buy
At Ra-Ro you can buy the Copper Cataplana hand-hammered by Nuno Palma. In September 2026, the product page listed prices from €183.30 to €375.20, depending on the version. From the same craftsman, see also the Copper Plate.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cataplana?
It is a copper vessel from the Algarve with two concave halves joined by a hinge, which closes tightly and cooks in steam. It is also the name of the dish made in it.
How much does a handmade copper cataplana cost?
At Ra-Ro, in September 2026, Nuno Palma’s Copper Cataplana cost between €183.30 and €375.20, depending on the version.
Where can I buy a copper cataplana?
In Loulé, at the Coppersmiths’ Workshop, or online at Ra-Ro, which sells the cataplana hand-hammered by coppersmith Nuno Palma.
