SPANISH THEME SHOPS
1. Patrimonio Comunal Olivarero
Spain is the largest producer of olives (see Patrimonio Comunal Olivarero) oil in the world and this representative of a grower’s cooperative knows his business. As with wines, it is possible to distinguish different varieties of oils by colour, flavour and smell, and tastings here are part of the fun.
2. Capas Seseña
This family-run firm (see Capas Seseña) near Sol has been making traditional full-length Spanish capes (capas) since 1901, hand-tailored from the finest wool. Famous clients over the years have included Rudolph Valentino, Hillary Clinton and Bruce Springsteen, alongside Spanish royalty. Needless to say, a made-to-measure cape of this quality does not come cheap.
Exterior of the Capas Seseña cape shop
3. El Ángel
Religion still plays an important role in Spanish life, and Madrid is famous for its characterful shops specializing in devotional objects. Founded in 1867, family-run El Ángel furnishes churches and monasteries across the country. The shop is a veritable museum, with over 1000 sq m (3281 sq ft) of articles, including rosaries, statues, paintings, icons and communion cups.
4. Guitarras Manuel Contreras
One of Spain’s most respected guitar workshops was founded in 1962. Clients have ranged from the classical virtuoso Andrés Segovia to pop guitarist Mark Knopfler. There’s a small museum of instruments dating back to the 19th century, and it’s fascinating to see the craftsmen at work.
Manuel González Contreras guitar
5. Antigua Casa Talavera
Dating back to the early 20th century, Antigua Casa Talavera sells ceramics that are handmade by Spanish potters. Regional styles are represented from all the major centres of ceramics production in Spain, including the famous blue and yellow designs from Talavera de la Reina. Items include decorative tiles, plates, vases, sangria pitchers and reproductions of museum pieces.
6. El Flamenco Vive
If you’ve been won over by flamenco during your stay, now is your chance to look the part. This specialist store (see El Flamenco Vive) has everything – colourful costumes and accessories such as fans, flowers and ornamental combs, as well as guitars, books, sheet music, videos, records and CDs.
El Flamenco Vive
7. Franjul
Designing and crafting handbags and shoes since 1947, Franjul embodies Spanish style with its bespoke accessories. Choose from a selection of styles and materials to create your own one-of-a-kind handbag or a pair of shoes.
8. Casa Mira
This old-fashioned shop (see Casa Mira) has been producing its famous nougat (turrón) for more than 150 years. Made without artificial colourings or preservatives, it’s the genuine article.
9. Licores Mariano Madrueño
This centenarian liquor shop (see Licores Mariano Madrueño) offers an extensive selection of wines, vermouths and brandies. Sometimes, they host wine tasting sessions, and have live music.
Liquor at Licores Mariano Madrueño
10. Ferpal
This delicatessen (see Ferpal) has a delectable range for top-quality cured meats and cheeses. Spanish cheeses include queso manchego, made from sheep’s milk, and the blue cheese, cabrales. For the finest cured hams, buy jamón Ibérico or Pata Negra – a breed of pigs fed only on acorns. Fresh sandwiches are also prepared with a variety of ingredients.
TOP 10 SPANISH MARKETS
1. Mercado de la Cebada
Plaza de la Cebada s/n • Mon–Fri & Sat am; first Sun of each month
This food market’s origins date back to the 16th century (see Mercado de la Cebada).
Mercado de la Cebada
2. Ferias de Artesanía
Craft fairs are put up a week before Christmas. Try Plaza Mayor.
3. Mercado de Sellos
Stamp and coin collectors meet on Sunday mornings under the arches of Plaza Mayor.
4. El Rastro
Madrid’s famous flea market takes place every Sunday morning (see El Rastro).
5. Mercado de Maravillas
Calle Bravo Murillo 122 • Metro Alvarado • Mon–Fri & Sat am
Fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, cured ham and cheese.
6. Mercado de Chamartín
Calle Bolivia 9 • Metro Colombia • Mon–Fri (closed at midday) & Sat am
Fish and gourmet products.
7. Mercado de San Miguel
Delicatessen stalls selling food and drink to enjoy on site (see Mercado de San Miguel).
8. Mercado de la Paz
Calle Ayala 28 • Mon–Fri (closed at midday) & Sat am
The main attraction of this small market is the cheese stalls.
9. Mercado de San Antón
Calle Augusto Figueroa 24 • Mon–Fri (closed at midday) & Sat am
Flowers, food and wine.
10. Feria del Libro
Calle de Claudio Moyano • Mon–Fri (closed at midday); Sat & Sun am
Old, new and second-hand books.
