Càntir is the Catalan word for botijo, a sort of earthenware jug traditionally used in rural zones of Spain to keep the water fresh. However, this humble object is well worth a museum! Almost one of a kind, the Museu del Càntir d’Argentona hides impressive treasures in its interior: more than 4,000 pieces from the Bronze Age to today, from Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Morocco or Peru, to name some countries.
It was founded in 1975 by a group of friends led by Jaume Clavell i Nogueras, local Historian and ceramics lover, with the support of the Town Council. Its crown jewels are four pieces by Picasso, and collections of modernist càntirs and askoi. Additionally, each year the Museum requests a renowned artisan to recreate their own vision of the càntir. In the past this has included such masters as Juan Martínez Villacañas, Juan Ruiz de Luna, John Leach, Maria Bofill, and Teresa Gironés.