Ceramics and pottery
These are surely the most emblematic crafts of Andalusia, often inherited from Arabo-Andalusian traditions. Today, they can be found in many different forms: vases, plates, cups, jars, lamps or decorative tiles such as azulejos. While they can be found in many towns and villages, three places are particularly recommended for enthusiasts. In Seville, Triana, the old potters' quarter, still boasts a number of stores offering ceramics in all styles, from the most traditional to the most contemporary. And you can learn more about the techniques and materials used by visiting the dedicated Interpretation Centre. Another must-see is the province of Granada. Here, you can discover Fajalauza, a direct legacy of Nazari expertise, recognizable by its green, blue and white colors and decorative motifs, birds, flowers, etc. Finally, Úbeda in the province of Jaén is also renowned for the quality of its distinctive green-colored ceramics, and it is worth visiting the Paco Tito Museum, a journey down memory lane of this craft.
Sombreros and mantillas
If you're looking to create a flamenco look, now's the time to invest in this extremely colorful traditional dress. Called faralaes, these dresses emphasize the feminine form: flared at the bottom with ruffles and a plunging neckline, V-shaped, round or square, depending on the trend of the moment. They're plentiful in souvenir stores, but to get your hands on a real one, it's best to visit a specialized boutique. In Seville, you'll find them in Calle Serpies and the surrounding pedestrian streets. As a complement, opt for some very pretty fans, because from the simplest to the most elaborate, they're available at all price levels. And in the souvenir department, don't forget hair ornaments, shawls in bright floral tones, usually hand-woven, or mantillas. As for men's headgear, the cordobés sombrero, a low-cut, cylindrical felt with a wide, flat edge, is the most popular for traditional festivities. Best bought in Cordoba, near the plaza de las Tendillas.
Leather and Leather Goods
In this field, the town of Ubrique, in the province of Cadiz, has become a benchmark worldwide, producing for luxury brands such as Loewe, Christian Dior and Pierre Cardin. But it's not the only one, as it's home to a large number of artisan workshops that uphold an age-old tradition, which can be seen on display in its Leather Museum. Another city of reference is Cordoba, whose two leather-working techniques, guadamecies and cordobanes, are particularly noteworthy. These consist in preparing, engraving and working the leather, covering it with metal and then painting it. Today, only a handful of family workshops still preserve this great tradition. But you can appreciate them by visiting the Guadamecí Omeya house museum, or by going to Osuna, in the province of Seville, to admire and perhaps acquire objects made by exceptional craftsmen, such as those who set up Artedos Osuna. Their creations adorn some of the rooms of the Casa de la Juderia hotel in Seville. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the boots and saddles made in the province of Huelva, but it's Ecija, in the province of Seville, that remains one of the most renowned centers for Spanish saddlery. For smaller purchases (bags, purses, belts and even jewelry), we recommend artisanal centers, notably in Seville and Cordoba, for a guarantee of quality at affordable prices.
Woodworking
It is embodied first and foremost in a wide range of marquetry objects. One of Granada's most distinctive crafts is Taracea, the inlaying of different materials and metals into wood. Having reached its apogee during the Nazari period, it is still practiced in theAlcacería, a former souk, where you can have trunks, tables, boxes, chessboards, etc. made to order. The city is also home to many cabinetmakers, but it is Lucena, in the province of Cordoba, that boasts expertise recognized throughout Spain. With the promise of creating furniture (table, china cabinet, sideboard) and numerous objects in every possible wood species, pine, oak, cherry... Another great Andalusian expertise is the carving of wood as an ornamental branch of sculpture. These range from religious imagery, such as the sculptures paraded during Holy Week pasos , to cabinetmaking accessories (rosettes, flowers). Finally, if you're in the market for a guitar, you should know that Granada, along with Madrid, is the other major school for luthiers.
Gourmet basket
Olive oil. You won't want to leave without a bottle of the "liquid gold" you've enjoyed during your stay. The province of Cordoba, long the most renowned in this field, is now joined by that of Jaén, Andalusia's largest producer, which is now committed to the conquest of quality. If you can, visit two exceptional addresses: Nuñez de Prado in Baena and Orobailén near Baños de la Encina. Combine your purchase with a tasting and a visit to the production sites. Like all good oils, they can also be found in the Corte Inglés gourmet shops in every provincial capital.
Wines. Give priority to Jerez wines, but don't forget Málaga muscats and Montilla-Moriles appellation d'origine contrôlée (DO) wines, related to Jerez wines. Many bodegas also offer tours and tastings.
Iberian ham. In Andalusia, two hams benefit from a controlled designation of origin: Jabugo, in the province of Huelva, and Trevélez, in Alpujarra. When buying, pay close attention to the label (black, red, green and white), bearing in mind that black and red are the optimum. With the price that goes with it, but worth it.
