Discovering the Heart of Cork: My Visit to FICOR 2025 in Coruche

Cork is more than just a bottle stopper – it’s tradition, innovation, sustainability, and above all, identity. This spring, I had the opportunity to attend FICOR 2025 – the International Cork Fair in Coruche, Portugal, the world’s cork capital. From traditional harvesting to modern design, the fair was a celebration of cork in all its forms.

FICOR 2025 main entrance banner in Coruche

A Warm Welcome to the Cork Capital

Coruche proudly wears the title of "Capital Mundial da Cortiça" (World Cork Capital), and FICOR is the best proof of that claim. Held from May 29 to June 1, 2025, the event brought together cork producers, designers, innovators, and visitors from around the globe. The town was alive with energy, and the venue was decorated with massive banners, cork sculptures, and sustainable design elements.

Interior welcome area at the fair with bark hanging and cork decor

The Essence of Cork – Raw and Pure

Inside the main hall, one of the most impressive displays was the beautifully arranged bundles of raw cork bark. It was fascinating to see the material in its natural form before it's processed into the many products we know.

Display of harvested cork bark – the beginning of the cork journey

This visual connection between nature and final product gave us a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in cork harvesting, which is still done by hand using axes.

Craft Meets Creativity

FICOR is not just about raw material – it’s about what cork can become. From high-fashion garments to charming cork miniatures, the fair presented a wide range of innovative uses of cork. One of my personal favorites was a handcrafted cork windmill and miniature furniture, blending tradition and creativity.

Miniature cork windmill and furniture with cork fashion in the background

Innovation for a Sustainable Future

As sustainability becomes more central in global design and construction, cork is taking on a new role. Exhibitors at FICOR displayed cork-insulated bricks and other eco-building materials – lightweight, natural, and effective.

Eco-construction materials using cork insulation on display

Alongside these were full cork furniture sets, proving that natural materials can also be stylish and modern.

Contemporary table and chairs made with cork panels and metal frames

A Tribute to Cork Harvesters

The fair also paid homage to the men and women who make this industry possible – the cork harvesters. There was a charming corner with lifelike images and props, allowing visitors to step into the shoes of traditional workers.

Life-size cutouts demonstrating the cork harvesting process

This interactive space added a personal, human touch to the exhibition and highlighted the tradition passed down over generations.

Cork Culture Bazaar

Finally, I strolled through a vibrant indoor market filled with small stalls selling cork-based products – wallets, keychains, bags, jewelry, and home decor. It was a true celebration of craftsmanship and local pride.

Market area with handmade cork products and local artisans

Conclusion

Visiting FICOR 2025 was a powerful reminder of how a humble natural material like cork can connect ecology, economy, and creativity. From forest to fashion, and from tradition to technology, cork has proven to be one of the most versatile and inspiring materials of our time.

If you’re ever in Portugal during FICOR season, don’t miss the chance to discover the world of cork up close – it might just change the way you see nature.