Almagro

A beautifully preserved town centered on its unique green-framed Plaza Mayor and the historic Corral de Comedias, one of the oldest working theaters in the world. Its lace-making tradition and elegant architecture reflect a rich noble past.

Things to do

• Plaza Mayor — Stroll through this elongated, cobbled square framed by tiers of glass-enclosed green wooden balconies unique to Almagro.
• Corral de Comedias — Tour one of the world's only surviving 17th-century open-air theaters, still used for live performances today.
• Museo Nacional del Teatro — Explore this national theater museum housing costumes, stage models, and memorabilia from Spain's Golden Age drama.
• Museo del Encaje y del Bolillo — Learn about Almagro's centuries-old bobbin lace-making tradition, still practiced by local women in doorways and plazas.
• Convento de la Asunción de Calatrava — Visit this former 16th-century convent, now a Parador hotel, to admire its serene cloisters and Renaissance architecture.
• Palacio de los Fúcares — See the historic mansion once used by the Fugger banking family, who managed the Calatrava military order's finances here.
• Iglesia de San Agustín — Admire this baroque church with an ornate facade, one of several noble religious buildings reflecting Almagro's wealthy past.

Food to try

• Berenjenas de Almagro — Try these small pickled eggplants, a protected local specialty seasoned with paprika and herbs, sold in jars across town.
• Pisto manchego — Sample this regional ratatouille of tomatoes, peppers, onion, and zucchini, often topped with a fried egg.
• Queso manchego — Taste the region's famous sheep's milk cheese, aged to varying degrees and often paired with local wine.
• Gachas manchegas — Warm up with this traditional flour-based porridge cooked with garlic, paprika, and pork bits.
• Migas manchegas — Try this hearty dish of fried breadcrumbs mixed with chorizo, bacon, and grapes, a staple of Castilian country cooking.
• Duelas de Almagro — Finish with these local almond pastries shaped like barrel staves, a sweet nod to the town's winemaking heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect siesta hours — Many shops and museums close in the early afternoon, typically from 2pm to 5pm, so plan visits accordingly.
• Time your trip for the theater festival — The Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico held each July fills the Corral de Comedias and plazas with classic Spanish drama.
• Support local lace artisans — Buying handmade bobbin lace directly from women working outside their homes helps preserve this dying local craft.
• Dress modestly for religious sites — Covered shoulders and knees are appreciated when entering the town's historic convents and churches.