Álvaro Gutiérrez, the delegate of the Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha in Toledo, has praised the involvement of 44 artisans from Toledo at FARCAMA 2026, which represents over 54% of the total participants from the region. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the fair, which continues to grow with increased exhibitors, activities, and workshops, with Toledo set to play a key role in the upcoming FARCAMA Primavera event in Talavera de la Reina.
Gutiérrez, alongside Julián Martín, the provincial delegate for Economy, Companies, and Employment, assessed the ongoing fair held at the iconic Parque de la Vega in Toledo. They noted a significant public turnout, which could potentially surpass last year's visitor numbers, indicating a successful event.
“FARCAMA is a showcase of talent, creativity, and traditions that are part of our identity,” Gutiérrez stated, emphasising that the fair is more than just an exhibition; it serves as an economic promotion platform, supporting artisans while preserving cultural identity and fostering tourism in the region. He added, “Behind every displayed piece lies hours of work, dedication, patience, and heart,” acknowledging the artisans who keep centuries-old crafts alive and transform tradition into art.
Gutiérrez expressed gratitude to all artisans, exhibitors, and visitors who contribute to making the fair a hallmark of Castilla-La Mancha. Julián Martín reinforced the significance of supporting craftsmanship as an investment in culture and future, highlighting FARCAMA as an opportunity to enhance visibility for artisans and open new commercial avenues.
“Craftsmanship is not a thing of the past; it is living culture, work, creativity, and future,” he asserted, noting that the true stars of FARCAMA are the artisans themselves. One of the most notable moments of the fair was the recognition ceremony for outstanding artisans, including seven from Toledo.
This year, awards were presented to Gustavo del Pino Rueda from Talavera de la Reina, who received the Applied Design Award, and Maarten Van Ham from Nambroca, who was honoured with the Entrepreneurship Award. Óscar Martín Garrido, a damasquinador from Toledo, received the Artisan Merit Plaque, while Alberto Acosta Gómez, a ceramist from Velada, Antonio Arellano Hernández, a swordsmith from Toledo, and Julio César Ramírez Romero, a swordsmith from Camuñas, were awarded the title of Master Artisan. An especially poignant moment occurred when the family of the late ceramist Juan Antonio Escobar accepted a posthumous recognition, honouring his valuable legacy that his descendants continue to uphold.
