Fire & Steel Sword-Making Workshop, Toledo

With Toledo known for its exceptional steel craftsmanship and swords, you can learn how the city has been making swords for centuries. Discover the history of Toledan sword-making and view exhibits featuring different types of blades from the Iberian Peninsula. Then, with the help of a master swordsmith, you'll watch the entire process and learn traditional techniques, trying the forging, tempering, and polishing yourself. Just note that the workshop is located 10 minutes by taxi (or 30 min by bus) outside Toledo.

This unique workshop gives you a hands-on experience with famous Toledo sword-making. Your host is Antonio Arellano, a master swordsmith since 2002, who will show you how he forges Toledan swords with fire, anvil, and hammer. As Antonio works his magic, you'll learn several traditional techniques and production stages that made (and still makes) the Toledan blade so famous. Enjoy watching Antonio's skills in action in his very own shop.

Next, you'll discover the history of Toledan steel and swords and view several examples of blades from different regions and eras on the Iberian Peninsula. Get an up-close view of renowned weaponry, such as pre- Romanesque swords like the Iberian falcata knife, The Cid's Tizona sword, or the Swept hilts swords.

Once you've learned all about sword-making in Toldeo, it's time to try forging, tempering, and polishing steel yourself, with Antonio's help and safety precautions.