Handmade heritage at colorful craft fairs
Centuries-old traditions continue to endure in Spain, where the work of every artisan is based on skills that have been transmitted from generation to generation. Depending on the region of the country you visit, the craft items available for purchase can vary significantly, as they reflect the culture of the locale.
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 beautiful example of Mudéjar architecture, the Church of Santiago del Arrabal. Over several days in October, visitors can stroll amongst the artisans’ stalls and even see them at work.
Whatever kind of craft you’re looking for, you’ll probably find it at FARCAMA, because this fair brings together a wide variety of artisans skilled in ironmongery, glasswork, pottery, fabrics, leather goods, jewelry, woodwork — and the list goes on. Many of the items on display are typical of the region, such as ceramics from Talavera de la Reina or embroidery from Lagartera.
Traditional gastronomy also has a place at this fair. A dedicated area is usually set up to offer samples of local products such as marzipan and artisanal cheeses.
Craft Market Fair in the Region of Madrid
For the past four decades, this craft fair held in Madrid makes Christmas even more special for visitors. During December, many artisans set up their stands along the Paseo de Recoletos, nestled between emblematic sites including the Cibeles fountain and Plaza de Colón. Although most of these artisans are from the Region of Madrid, others from different parts of Spain also attend.
Browsing the stands, visitors can learn all about the history of goldsmithing, millinery, ceramics, toys, engraving, jewelry, and more.
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 bohemian atmosphere.
The fair opens several days a week between 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. Be sure to visit the stalls dedicated to gastronomy, where you can delight in dishes that will revive you after an intense shopping experience!
If you want to start creating your own craftworks, the artisans of La Mola often give workshops where you can learn to work with wood, ceramics and other materials. Then you can take home the best souvenir of your trip to Spain: a piece of craftwork that you made yourself!
