Corral de Comedias, Almagro

The Corral de Comedias is unique.  It is the only preserved seventeeth century theatre in Spain.  Comedy Theatres began in family inns and this corral (patio) is no exception.
The Almagro Comedy Theatre was incorporated into the Del Toro Inn in 1628 by Leonardo Oviedo. 
After the closure of these types of theatres was ordered in the eighteenth century, some of them were transformed into Italian style theatres; however, most of them were lost over time. In Almagro, once plays were forbidden; the building continued its activities as an inn (de las Comedias Inn).
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. Nowadays, the theatre is lively all year round, hosting not only plays during the well-known International Theatre’s Festival, but also throughout the whole year.

The Alojería is a ground floor area located in front of the stage where they used to sell drinks known as the Aloja, made with water, honey and spices as well as fruits and dried fruits.  (Alcohol was felt to be not a good idea)

Alojería

El Patio de Mosqueteros (Musketeers’  Patio) is at the side of the central patio of the building, where men belonging to the lowest social classes, musketeers, stood, because they could only afford the cheapest places.

We really enjoy our wander around and love this interesting venue.  To add to the atmosphere, a young actor is being mentored on stage.  

La Cazuela on the first floor 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 Aposentos or galleries 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.  I find it all quite divisive but do not dwell on this.  It is history.

He is still working hard when we leave, I hope he does well.