In the world of international comics, Madrid can boast of having a unique jewel: Akira Cómics, the bookstore located in Betanzos Street, which in 2025 has received for the second time the most prestigious award of the sector at a global level: the Eisner Spirit of Comics, awarded at the Comic-Con in San Diego. Becoming the only Spanish store -and the first European- to win this award twice demonstrates the level of excellence achieved by this Madrid-based shop, already considered a world reference among professionals and the public who are fans of the ninth art.
The award, popularly known as the “Oscar of comics”, recognizes not only the careful selection and variety of Akira Cómics’ catalog, but also its commitment to cultural diffusion, user experience and the promotion of reading for all ages. The bookstore, founded in 1993 by the Cortés family, has been in business for more than three decades and has been consolidated by its expert staff and ability to reinvent itself in a changing sector.
Editorial credit: Akira Comics
This is the world’s best comic book store
Akira Comics, with more than 1,000 square meters of exhibition space, is attractive for its organization and customer service: here there are specialized corners for manga, American and European comics, graphic novels, fantasy and children’s literature, as well as collectible figures, merchandising, role-playing material and board games. Beyond its catalog, the store is also a meeting place for the community: there are author signings, book clubs, exhibitions and activities for the whole family, making it a hot spot for discoverers and collectors.
The influence of Akira Cómics transcends the neighborhood and the city; after the first Eisner received in 2012, the bookstore has been a model and inspiration for many comic stores inside and outside Spain. The commitment to the visibility of independent comics and the continuous connection with its customers have been decisive in putting Madrid back on the international comics map.
The distinction of the San Diego Comic-Con is a boost for Madrid’s cultural sector and for Spanish comics, demonstrating that illustrated stories can have a worldwide reference temple not only in New York, Paris or Tokyo, but also in the heart of the capital’s northern district.