International Ceramics Market Siegburg

International Ceramics Market Siegburg — Ceramics as City DNA

On July 11 and 12, 2026, the historic market square of Siegburg will once again become Germany's largest open-air stage for contemporary ceramic art. The International Ceramics Market ranks among the three most renowned ceramics markets in Europe — alongside Oldenburg and Diessen. What makes Siegburg special: The city has an almost thousand-year-old tradition of ceramics. The medieval Siegburg stoneware was traded throughout Europe; archaeological finds show that high-quality stoneware jugs were produced here from the 12th century onwards. The ceramics market builds on this heritage — but in the mode of contemporary art.

Strictly Curated — 94 Exhibitors from 11 Countries

Unlike a pottery market with open registration, the Siegburg market is juried. Those who wish to exhibit must be trained professionals — ceramic masters, designers, diploma holders, or university graduates. This significantly raises the standard and makes the market a kind of condensed "Ceramics Biennale." In 2026, the approximately 94 exhibiting studios will come from:

• Germany (main proportion)
• Netherlands
• Belgium
• France
• Czech Republic
• Austria
• Poland
• Italy (Guest Country, 6 exhibitors)
• plus other nations

Guest Country 2026: Italy

Each year, Siegburg designates a guest country, which is particularly honored with a complementary special exhibition and several market stands. In 2026, it is Italy. At the Siegburg City Museum, the exhibition "Becoming — between Matter, History and Nature" will open on Sunday, July 12, at 11:30 AM, featuring works by Paolo Porrelli and Mattia Vernocchi, two prominent contemporary Italian ceramic artists. Six Italian studios will also be directly represented at the market.

Program in and Around the Market

• Saturday, July 11 + Sunday, July 12, 2026, 11 AM–6 PM daily — Market with approx. 94 exhibitor stands on the historic market square
• Sunday 1:00 PM — Awards ceremony for "Most Beautiful Stand" and "Best Work"
• Siegburg City Museum — Special exhibition "Becoming" (Opening Sunday 11:30 AM, Guest Country Program)
• Children's Pottery Activity with Siegburg clay, Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM–5:00 PM daily
• Catering stands for food and drinks around the market square

Siegburg — the Ceramics City on the Edge of the Bonn Metropolitan Area

Siegburg, with around 42,000 inhabitants, is the district capital of the Rhein-Sieg-Kreis and is strategically located between Bonn (10 km) and Cologne (30 km). The landmark is the Abbey of Michaelsberg high above the city, founded in 1064 by Archbishop Anno II of Cologne. The Old Town with its historic market square has largely preserved its medieval structure and forms an ideal backdrop for the ceramics market. The pedestrian zone begins directly below the abbey; ICE high-speed train connection to the Cologne-Frankfurt high-speed line (Siegburg/Bonn station).

Siegburg Stoneware — Medieval World Class

From the 14th to the 17th century, Siegburg was one of the most important centers for stoneware production in Europe. Characteristic: gray or brownish, salt-glazed jugs with floral or figural relief decoration. Pieces of Siegburg stoneware can today be found in practically all major European museums, from London to Amsterdam to Berlin. The Siegburg City Museum houses a significant collection — a visit parallel to the ceramics market is almost mandatory.

Atmosphere & Tips

Those who arrive early (Saturday 11 AM) will still have the full selection from the most sought-after studios — many pieces from renowned ceramicists sell out within a few hours. The weather in July is usually mild to warm; in case of rain, some stands will continue under pavilions. If you plan to buy, bring cash (some exhibitors accept cards, many do not) and consider transport capacity — ceramics are heavy and fragile.