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Madrid's craftsmen and women

Jandra Cerámica. © Álvaro López del Cerro. Madrid Destino

A map of old Madrid can be traced by the trades after which many of its streets are named: Latoneros (tinsmiths), Cuchilleros (cutlers), Curtidores (tanners), and Bordadores (embroiderers). However, craftsmanship is not just a thing of the past. The last decade has seen a new generation of makers reclaiming the value of hand-made items, as tailors, basket makers and potters open studios in the capital that are inspired by the latest trends in fashion. We scoured the streets of Lavapiés, the Barrio de Las Letras Literary Quarter, Chueca, Las Salesas, Malasaña, Conde Duque, La Latina, and Hapsburg Madrid in search of new workshops and old businesses whose doors have been open for more than a century. It’s worth noting that the capital is also home to artisans with studios hidden from view or who don’t have a physical store but whose creations can be found in other specialist shops around the city.

MADE IN MADRID

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Oficio Studio (© Álvaro López del Cerro).

Masters of leather

Leather tanning is one of the oldest trades still practised in Madrid. Today the city is home to many an artisan who works with leather using age-old techniques.

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¡Abanicos para combatir el calor! Estos tan coloridos son de Casa de Diego (©Álvaro López del Cerro).

Fans for the summer

In these two shops, one classic and the other modern, you’ll find the perfect summer accessory.

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La Favorita. Foto: Álvaro López del Cerro

Hats for all occasions

In these shops –some over a century old– and workshops in our city, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for.

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Estas Meninas poliédricas de colores son obra de Felipao

Meninas: A Madrid icon

These famous maids of honour depicted in Diego Velázquez's painting today act as genuine muses for many workshops and artists in Madrid.

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Guitarras Ramírez. © Álvaro López del Cerro. Madrid Destino

Madrid's Luthiers

Let's visit some of the master craftsmen and women who make handmade guitars.

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JAVIER S. MEDINA. © Álvaro López del Cerro

Return to rural

Today we can find craftsmen, some of whom come from historical Madrid-born families, who share this passion for former trades in these current times.

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Circo. Foto: Álvaro López del Cerro. © Madrid Destino

Timeless Jewellery

Pieces of jewellery are dreams come true in the eyes of these makers who, in their studios in Madrid, uphold an artisan tradition deeply rooted in our city.

 

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Jandra Cerámica. © Álvaro López del Cerro. Madrid Destino

Madrid’s new generation of potters

The feel of clay in your hands can be quite an experience. In Madrid, there are numerous studios where skilled artisans work to express themselves through this medium.

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Así de coloridos son los guantes de Santacana (© Álvaro López del Cerro)

A tailor-made glove

Not only is it the most elegant of all fashion accessories, but it also protects our hands from the cold. Our city can boast numerous shops and workshops where their gloves are still 100% handmade.

DOWNLOAD OUR GUIDE

Madrid’s artisans, old and new

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Folleto Nuevos y antiguos artesanos de Madrid

Download our map displaying a wonderful selection of shops selling hand-crafted items

OFFICIAL PRODUCTS

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Madrid City Tour

Original Guided Tours

Explore Madrid with our selection of tours (in Spanish).

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Faro de Moncloa

Panoramic views at 92 metres

An observation deck offering wonderful vistas of the city.

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Tienda de la Casa de la Panadería

Official Madrid Shop

Visit our online store (in Spanish) of souvenirs made by local artisans!

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