Almagro

Almagro, a town of historical significance in Castile-La Mancha, is deeply rooted in its past. Finds such as Roman coins and a tombstone indicate settlement as early as Roman times. In the 13th century, the Order of Calatrava chose Almagro as its seat, making the town its administrative center. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the town grew, noble families and merchants settled, and Renaissance and Baroque buildings still define its cityscape today.The Plaza Mayor, with its arcades on Tuscan stone columns and glazed galleries, is the heart of Almagro. On the Plaza lies the Corral de Comedias, a courtyard theatre dating back to 1628, which is still in use today. It is the only fully preserved theatre of its kind and bears witness to the rich theatrical culture of that era.Traditions play a significant role in Almagro. Since 1978, the International Classical Theatre Festival has been held here every July, including performances in the Corral de Comedias. Craftsmanship, particularly bobbin lace (Encaje de Bolillos), is also a vibrant part of the local culture, with a dedicated museum showcasing pieces from the town.

Almagro has a compact historic town center, best explored on foot. Squares, alleys, and palaces are close by.Bus connections are available for trips to surrounding towns, such as Ciudad Real. For evening trips or excursions in the area, taxis are on hand; advance booking is often advisable as ride-sharing services are rarely found. The Mancha landscape can be well explored by bike. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for the old town's cobblestones.