Mangalore tiles

Mangalore tiles (also Mangalorean tiles) are a type of roof tile produced in the city of Mangalore, India. Tiles were first produced in the city by German missionaries of the Basel Mission of Switzerland, who also established weaving enterprises. Early Mangalore tiles followed the designs of the Gilardoni brothers of Altkirch, France, but over time the predominant pattern used was based on Wilhelm Ludowici's 1881 design for roof tile.

Since that time, the industry grew in India with these tiles in great demand throughout the country. They were exported to Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Far East and as far as East Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. These were the only roof tiles recommended for government buildings in India under the British Raj.

These tiles still define Mangalore's skyline and characterize its urban setting. They are a popular form of roofing and are preferred over concrete due to their higher quality.