At first glance, the large wooden door to the repostería stands strong, protective of the secrets that lie within. But to the visitor who takes a closer look, this door offers a mysteriously sacred speakeasy…
Tucked away from the bustling streets of Madrid, is a traditional wooden door, ornate with brass. But what lies past its ordinary facade is a deeper adventure, unique to the city: a sacred speakeasy, run by Catholic nuns sworn to isolation… but with deep mastery in the art of baking. So how do they choose to serve their community? They make delicious cookies, accessible to anyone who ventures to ring their doorbell.
Once entering the repostería, the daring (or hungry, as was our case) visitor is led through the halls, where you eventually are met with a “Torno”- the Spanish word for a turntable. Euros are placed on the Torno and after rotating the tray, are replaced by some delicious cookies, handmade by the nuns of the Corpus Christi monastery. They have all types of these yummy treats, including Galletas (crunchy, buttery lemon shortbreads), Naranjines (orange-flavored biscuits), and Nevaditos (iced shortbread cookies), amongst others.
Many tourists walk past this hidden gem, eager to get to the more popular attractions near Plaza Mayor. But will you, dear wanderer, be the one to take a closer look and discover this Sacred Speakeasy?
About the Authors
Bryce Lewis, Senior from Mooresville, NC, majoring in Film and Media Studies
Summer Righter, Junior from Hagerstown, MD majoring in Public Relations
Sophie Royals, Junior from Charlotte, NC, majoring in Marketing
Jemyah Jones, Senior from Greenville, SC, majoring in Hospitality Management