The Corral de Comedias

The “Corral de Comedias” of Almagro is the only one preserved as it was when it began and has been in activity from the 17^th century till today

Comedy Theatres used to follow the architectural model of family inns or neighbourhoods’ courtyards, enclosed in open-air spaces designed for the purpose of hosting theatrical performances during the Siglo de Oro (the Spanish Golden Age). After the closure of these types of theatres was ordered in the 18^th century, some of them were transformed into Italian style theatres; however, most of them were lost over time.

The Almagro Comedy Theatre was built over the so-called “del Toro inn” in 1628 by Leonardo Oviedo. This reform consisted in building the stage and the corridors, based on a light wooden structure, which imitating the Plaza Mayor design would allocate the audience.

The patio served as a transit area, giving access to the inn premises, situated under the three corridors around the wooden structure. In fact, once, plays were forbidden; the building continued its activities as an inn (de las Comedias Inn). At this point, the wooden structure was covered up with brick and plaster to optimize the use of the open areas like the stage, and the property was progressively segregated.

The “Corral” was rediscovered in 1954 and Almagro City Council bought the patio. After the restoration works, the building started a new era of theatrical performances. At this moment, the theatre is lively all year round, hosting not only plays during the well-known International Theatre Festival, but also throughout the whole year.

Recientemente se ha presentado la Candidatura del Corral de Comedias de Almagro a Patrimonio Mundial de la Humanidad.

Recently, the candidacy of the "Corral de Comedias" as UNESCO's World Heritage has been presented.

Parts of the Corral de Comedias

“Zaguán”. This is the entrance from the street to the building; during its restoration works in the 1950s they found a Spanish set of playing carts dated from 1725 which is currently preserved at the National Museum of Theatre.

“Alojería”. Lower corridor located in front of the stage where they used to sell drinks as the Aloja, made with water, honey and spices as well as fruits and dried fruits.

“Patio de Mosqueteros” (Musketeers’  Patio). The central patio of the building, where men belonging to the lowest social classes, musketeers, stood, given that they could only afford the cheapest places. In the lower right and left hand side corridors, wooden steps were available at a bit more expensive price.

“La Cazuela and Tertulia or Desván”. The first corridor in front of the stage was occupied by women, who had a separate access from the men’s point of access, as the two sexes were not allowed to be in direct contact. The Tertulia or Desván is the second corridor, right over the Cazuela.

“Aposentos or Galleries”. They were located in the upper corridor on the left and right hand sides, and were more expensive. Men and women could be together in the galleries, which were assigned to the wealthiest families belonging to the highest social classes. Some of the dependencies were reserved for the main authorities of the city: governors, council majors, and so on, who occupied this privileged place not only to see but also to be seen and show off their high social position.

“Tablado” (the stage).  Under the wooden stage, there was a cellar (bodega) which was used as men's changing room and as the stage entrance for the underworld characters via the Escotillón, a trapdoor on the stage floor. The theatre façade, behind which the changing rooms for the actresses were located, served as backdrop, using its different levels and free spaces to play with the scenery.

Opening hours:

- Because of Classical Theatre's Season for students, from March to May (12 am - 2 pm), visits are limit and so, check availaibility by phoning at (+34) 926 86 15 39.

- Opening hours may be subject to change without prior notice.