Key Facts about Almagro, Spain

Location

Almagro is located in the province of Ciudad Real, within Spain’s Castilla-La Mancha region, about 200 km south of Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, this historic town lies on the plains of La Mancha, surrounded by windmills, vineyards, and golden fields that inspired Cervantes’ Don Quixote.

Known for

Almagro is best known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and its famous open-air theater, the Corral de Comedias, the only surviving 17th-century playhouse of its kind in Spain. The town is also celebrated for its annual classical theater festival, charming Plaza Mayor, and its signature green-painted wooden balconies that give Almagro its unique look.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–June): Warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the historic center and attending local events.

• Summer (July–August): Lively atmosphere during the International Classical Theatre Festival.

• Autumn (September–October): Pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors in the surrounding countryside.

• Winter (November–March): Quiet charm, with crisp air and cozy taverns offering regional dishes.

Local Language

Spanish (Castilian). English is spoken in some tourist and cultural sites.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

• By train: Almagro has a station on the Madrid–Ciudad Real–Seville line; about 2 hours from Madrid.

• By car: Around 2 hours (200 km) from Madrid via the A-4 highway.

• By bus: Regular connections from Madrid and Ciudad Real.

• By air: The nearest airport is Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD).

Top Attractions

• Plaza Mayor: The heart of Almagro, framed by distinctive green galleries and historic arcades.

• Corral de Comedias: A 17th-century open-air theater still in use today—a must-see for culture lovers.

• National Theatre Museum: Showcasing costumes, scripts, and the history of Spanish performing arts.

• Palacio de los Fúcares: A Renaissance palace originally used as a granary by the Fugger family.

• Church of San Agustín: A baroque masterpiece adorned with frescoes.

• Convento de la Asunción de Calatrava: A striking 16th-century convent with beautiful cloisters.

Local Specialties

• Berenjenas de Almagro: Pickled baby eggplants flavored with paprika and garlic – the town’s most famous delicacy.

• Migas Manchegas: Fried breadcrumbs with sausage, peppers, and chorizo, a regional comfort dish.

• Manchego cheese: A local favorite produced in the surrounding plains.

• La Mancha wines: Full-bodied reds and crisp whites from nearby vineyards.

Notable Events

• Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico (July): One of Spain’s most important classical theater festivals, attracting performers from around the world.

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): Processions and religious celebrations that fill the town with tradition and music.

• Fiestas de San Bartolomé (August): The town’s patron saint festival with parades, fireworks, and folklore.

• Almagro Gastronomic Days (Autumn): Celebrating regional food and wine in local restaurants.