Some (craft) markets in Spain
The work of each artisan means that, today, centuries-old traditions continue to endure in Spain, which have been transmitted from generation to generation. Depending on the region of the country you find yourself in, the craft items available for purchase can vary significantly, as they reflect the culture of the place they come from.Across Spain, craft markets are held where the country's craftsmanship is on display for all to see. So, if you enjoy collecting craft pieces, you may want to mark these fairs on your calendar.
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FARCAMA, Craft Fair of Castilla-La Mancha
FARCAMA is the craftwork fair par excellence in Castile-La Mancha, and one of the most well known across Spain as a whole. It is held each year in Toledo, on the Paseo de la Vega, just a stone's throw from the city's Mudéjar architecture Church of Santiago del Arrabal. Over several days in October, visitors can stroll amongst the artisans' stalls and even see them at work.Whatever piece of crafts you are looking for, you will probably find it at FARCAMA, since this fair brings together artisans of different specializations: ironmongery, glasswork, pottery, fabrics, leather goods, jewelry, wood, the list goes on. Many of the items on display here are typical of the region, such as the ceramics from Talavera de la Reina or the embroidery from Lagartera.Traditional gastronomy also has a place at this fair. A dedicated area is usually set up to sample local products, with establishments for trying marzipan and artisanal cheeses.The fair also organizes educational workshops for children. If you are travelling with them, they are bound to have fun making handcrafted items, such as tiles and Mudejar-style painting on wood. This is the best way for the little ones to appreciate craftsmanship, popular traditions and, at the same time, have a great time. They can also do the most creative activities, such as balloon twisting, storytelling, face painting...
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Craft Market Fair in the Region of Madrid
For the past four decades, this craft fair has set up in the city of Madrid to make visitors' Christmas even more special, if possible. During December, many artisans who set up their stands along the Paseo de Recoletos, nestled between emblematic sites including the Cibeles fountain and Plaza de Colón. And, although most of these artisans are from the Region of Madrid, others from different regions of Spain are also in attendance. Browsing the stands, visitors can learn all about the history of goldsmithing, millinery, ceramics, toys, engravings, costume jewelery, etc. This is the perfect place to get your hands on a special and unique Christmas gift, as these types of items cannot usually be found in shopping centres. What's more, as they are handmade, your loved one is unlikely to find another that is the same.
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La Mola Craft Market
Pilar de La Mola, a town on the small, heavenly island of Formentera is the backdrop for the La Mola Mercadillo Hippy Market, a craft fair with a markedly hippy atmosphere.The fair opens several days a week, between the months of May and October. The good weather, the colorful stalls at the fair and the live musical performances help artisans and visitors enjoy a very pleasant day. There are also stalls dedicated to gastronomy, where you can delight in dishes that, after an intense time of shopping, whet anyone's appetite. If you want to start creating your own craftwork products, the artisans of La Mola iften impart workshops where you can learn to work with wood, ceramics and other materials, taking home the best souvenir of your trip to Spain: a piece of craftwork that you have made yourself.