Founded in 1824, the Vista Alegre Porcelain Factory was the first industrial unit dedicated to producing porcelain in Portugal, Vista Alegre is a Portuguese porcelain manufacturer located in Ílhavo in the district of Aveiro. The factory started by producing glassware and soapstone pottery, since the composition of porcelain clay was still unknown. The factory produced high-quality glassware, particularly pieces with relief decorations, engraved patterns and ornate borders, as well as delicately engraved medallions. In 1880, Vista Alegre ceased its glassware production to focus exclusively on porcelain. The merger with the Vista Alegre Group, in 2001, was a determining factor to business expansion. In the 21st century, Atlantis continues to affirm its presence in the main international markets and to be universally recognized as the manufacturer of one of the purest crystals in the world, combining traditional knowledge with the best in contemporary design. Vista Alegre Group company, continues to focus on its expansion strategy, by targeting new markets and consumers, Nowadays, Vista Alegre is more than a mere industrial unit. It is also part of the Portuguese heritage, boasting buildings of undeniable architectural interest, and a repository of social and artistic memories essential to the building of a Portuguese identity.