Calle Calderería Nueva, Granada

Its history dates back to the 11th century, when this area was the heart of the guild of coppersmiths and other copper-utensil makers. The street was strategically located next to part of the Zirid wall, which made it easier both to trade and to defend the city. The craftsmen who worked here were skilled metalworkers, making everything from everyday cauldrons to decorative copper pieces that were exported all over the Mediterranean.

From 1492, with the Castilian conquest, many of the Muslims who lived and worked here had to convert to Christianity in order to remain in the city. These new Christians, known as Moriscos, carried on working as coppersmiths because it was their only means of subsistence, and because the new settlers still needed their craft skills.

Over time, the coppersmith's trade gradually died out due to competition from factory-made goods and changing customs. The street adapted to new needs, and during the 20th century it began its transformation into what we know today: a space devoted to trading Arab products and crafts, and above all to teahouses that recreate the atmosphere of medieval al-Andalus.

The teahouses are the street's big draw. These venues recreate the atmosphere of old Arab tea salons, with traditional décor, Andalusi music and a wide range of teas from around the world. Stepping into a teahouse is like travelling back in time — the floor cushions, brass lamps, scent of incense and Arab sweets all create an atmosphere found nowhere else in Granada.

The craft shops sell typical products that tie in with the street's metalworking tradition. You'll find copper and brass lamps, engraved trays, decorative metalwork and ceramics. Many of these items are still made using the traditional techniques practised here centuries ago.

Arab cuisine has found its home in Granada on this street. Restaurants serve dishes such as couscous, tagines and falafel, along with traditional sweets like baklava and Turkish delight. It's a unique chance to sample authentic flavours from the eastern Mediterranean without leaving Andalusia.

The night-time atmosphere is especially magical. The brass lanterns that light the street cast plays of light and shadow that transport visitors back to the medieval souks. It's the perfect moment to enjoy a tea and some sweets while listening to traditional music.

The street's architecture preserves its medieval layout, with narrow lanes and whitewashed houses reminiscent of Nasrid Granada. Walking along it is like strolling through an open-air museum, where every corner tells stories of coexistence between cultures.

Calle Calderería Nueva is in the lower Albaicín, between Plaza de San Gregorio and Calle Elvira. It's easily reached on foot from the centre of Granada and lies very close to other sights such as the Cathedral and the Alcaicería, so you can easily combine a visit with a stroll through the old town.

For the most authentic experience, we recommend visiting at dusk or in the evening, when the teahouses are livelier and the lanterns create the most magical atmosphere. It's also pleasant during the day for shopping and browsing at a relaxed pace, but at night the experience is far more immersive, as the whole street is transformed.

Keep in mind that teahouses tend to keep afternoon-to-evening hours — many open from around 4pm and close quite late, ideal for a different kind of dinner or a special afternoon tea. The craft shops keep more conventional hours, usually from 10am to 8pm, so it's best to come during the day if you want to shop.

To get here, remember the street is fully pedestrianised, so you'll need to walk. The easiest option is to take a city bus to Plaza Nueva or Gran Vía and walk from there — just 5 to 10 minutes through very picturesque lanes.

Granada night-time free tour