It features nearly 2 kilometers of artisan stalls, exhibitions, decorative displays, shows, and children’s activities. Located about 40 kilometers south of Madrid, the El Álamo Medieval Market has already established itself as one of the most attractive spring events, designated a Festival of Tourist Interest by the Community of Madrid since 2016.
Following tradition, the event returns this year from April 30 to May 3 with free admission. In recent years, it has welcomed more than 40,000 people a day, who have been able to enjoy the various trades, characters, historical reenactments, and market stalls.
Trades, crafts, and gastronomy
At the market, you can find all kinds of medieval products: swords, armor, leather goods, jewelry, ceramics…As well as local products such as honey, cheese, cured meats, and sweets, among others.
And beyond the shows and themed entertainment , visitors can watch live as artisans preserve ancestral techniques in their trades, such as basket weaving, blacksmithing, woodcarving, and pottery.
For dinner and lunchtime, there will also be various stalls offering artisanal food and drinks. Visitors will even be able to sample dishes from different cultures around the world in a food court located in the Plaza de la Ermita in El Álamo, featuring traditional dishes from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia.
The Great Jousting Tournament
The medieval fair transforms the entire town of , featuring more than 300 artists and 30 theater, circus, and music companies that roam the streets all day long, creating a fairytale atmosphere.
And the most anticipated event is the Great Jousting Tournament of the Town of El Álamo, which is usually held at the La Chacona bullring. In it, 16 specialists and six thoroughbred horses star in a historical spectacle inspired by 15th-century jousts.
Thus, in early May, El Álamo transforms into a medieval village, filled with period costumes, stalls, music, and performances , complete with weapons and fire displays.
How to get to El Álamo
By car, the fastest route is via the R- toll highway. It is also possible to get there for free via the A-5 to Navalcarnero, connecting with the M-404.
For public transportation, you can take buses 529 or 539 from the Príncipe Pío transit hub. Both connect directly to El Álamo, and service is typically increased during the festival to accommodate the influx of visitors.