In early April 2022 the Madrid Metropolitan was given a sneak preview of the premises at Calle Moratin 7, that have been to be reworked into the capital’s latest English-language bookshop, proper within the coronary heart of the aptly named “barrio de las letras” (translated because the “Literary Quarter”). That summer time the bookshop opened on this listed constructing that after housed a workshop the place bespoke billiards tables have been made, sustaining its authentic signage and incorporating options that instantly gave Secret Kingdoms idiosyncratic appeal. Quick ahead eight months and the enterprise is doing effectively. We thought we’d pop by once more to search out out extra.
Books, numerous books
The bookshop boasts a powerful vary of up to date and traditional fiction and prose, journey books, cookery books, inspirational titles, historical past and humanities. One whole wall is devoted to Spain, with Spanish Literature, Historical past, journey and extra – all in English. Proprietor David Value is a bookworm with a real ardour for studying. His enthusiasm is contagious. Authors who reside within the Spanish capital have gravitated in direction of his bookshop because the starting, with a thriving writing membership assembly there frequently.
Second hand titles
The actually eclectic assortment of English language second-hand books that grace the shop is a treasure trove of youngsters’s books, historical past and historic fiction, thrillers, airport novels, biographies and extra. Prospects are inspired to sit within the cozy armchairs while looking and skimming. They’ve even put in a espresso maker for these wishing to remain longer.
Occasions
E-book signings, creator visits and literary quizzes – this ideally situated English language bookstore has all of it! Occasions at Secret Kingdoms are extraordinarily widespread. David is an enthralling host who instantly makes everybody really feel welcome.
Native information
Years of dwelling within the capital and having fun with all it has to supply signifies that David and his spouse are fountains of information for newcomers who go to the bookshop throughout stopovers within the capital metropolis. Aside from promoting guidebooks to vacationers, the couple discover themselves providing sensible recommendation to newcomers settling within the metropolis. Pop in for the most recent Robert Galbraith title and discover out helpful suggestions on the similar time.
Location
Unperturbed by close by city reconstruction works that generally reduce the circulate of visitors alongside calle Moratin, Secret Kingdoms is nestled subsequent door to the famend Catholic bookshop Libreria Códice. While the neighbourhood round them is present process an bold regeneration scheme, these bookshops are an oasis of calm simply two minutes’ stroll from Anton Martín metro station. You can see the perfect English books on the town on the proper value and in the perfect firm. Figuring out how supportive Madrid Metropolitan readers are of unbiased bookshops like Secret Kingdoms is a supply of satisfaction. Don’t overlook to say us to David once you pop by 🙂
