Madrid's craftsmen and women

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.