In the middle of the Christmas season, the Contemplare Foundation has once again brought together the best of the monastic bakeries in a unique fair where each sweet bears the silent signature of monks and cloistered nuns. After passing through the Plaza Mayor and other enclaves, now the event continues exclusively in the ABC Serrano shopping center in Madrid, which these days has become a showcase for the confectionery heritage of dozens of monasteries.
The exhibitors mix traditional mantecados, polvorones and marzipans with highly sought-after recipes, such as the yemas de las clarisas or the famous Moroccan sponge cake, along with panettone and garrapiñadas that have been made for generations behind the walls of the convents. Each box sold helps to support contemplative communities throughout Spain, France and Italy, which find in these fairs a way to maintain their life of prayer and manual labor.
Gourmet novelties from the cloister
Along with the usual flavors, this edition incorporates more daring proposals, such as matcha nougat, macadamia and chai balls, caramelized pistachios, cheese cookies or even a surprising black pudding spread(boudin noir à tartiner), a French delicatessen.
In addition to sweets, the fair is showcasing a line of 100% natural cosmetics made with plants and products from the monastic gardens, from moisturizers and lip balms to clay soaps, lavender shampoos and fig-scented air fresheners. Under the slogan Made in Prayer, each item reflects that there is a balance possible between caring for the body with a spirituality deeply rooted in the contemplative tradition.
Due to the dates we are in, the fair can only be visited at ABC Serrano, where it will remain open until December 20 with a selection of traditional sweets perfect for early Christmas shopping or to find gourmet gifts. Those who can not come to Madrid have the option to purchase many of these products through the website of the Contemplare Foundation, with home deliveries from the convents themselves throughout the peninsula.