EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: ALCALÁ DE HENARES

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN ALCALÁ DE HENARES

Alcalá de Henares is known for its sweets and rosquillas de Alcalá are one of the city’s most famous pastries. Rosquillas de Alcalá are small donuts made with puff pastry and oven-baked until they’re golden brown. Once cooled, these flaky treats are bathed in a creamy glaze of water, sugar, and egg yolks which gives them their signature yellow glow. The recipe for these treats dates back to the 16th century and locals often joke, “had they not been made by nuns, they would be considered a mortal sin.” Buy a rosquilla de Alcalá at any pastelería (pastry shop) and enjoy them for breakfast as the Spaniards do. Good luck eating just one!

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Alcalá de Henares

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Alcalá de Henares:

• Costrada de Alcalá: The Costrada de Alcalá is a famous cake made with layers of flaky puff pastry, a creamy meringue filling, and almond praline. It’s a very traditional dessert, so you can find it in bakeries and restaurants all over the city.
• Rosquillas de Alcalá: Rosquillas de Alcalá are a type of doughnut that are covered in a sweet, golden glaze made from egg yolks and sugar. It’s sweet, flaky and absolutely delicious.  
• Duelos y Quebrantos: With a name that means "griefs and broken bones," this traditional meal includes scrambled eggs with bacon and chorizo. This delicious dish is famously mentioned in Don Quixote by the city's most famous son, Miguel de Cervantes! 

BEST DRINK IN ALCALÁ DE HENARES

Since Spain is one of the world’s major wine-producing countries, it’s not surprising that it also produces mosto – a drink best described as full-bodied grape juice. Mosto translates to “must” and describes the process of pressing grapes to separate the skins, seeds, and stems and filter out the liquid. Unlike wine, mosto isn’t fermented, so it’s a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage enjoyed by adults and children alike. Mosto comes in red or white varieties, with a flavor profile reminiscent of apple juice. Interestingly, you’ll find mosto served with an orange slice and an olive. Apparently, the combo works – try it for yourself!

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Alcalá de Henares

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Alcalá de Henares:

• Rioja Wine: Rioja is a famous wine region of Spain, and you'll find this is a very common red wine locals enjoy with their meals. Trying a glass of classic Rioja is a great way to experience a piece of Spanish wine culture!
• Sangria: This is a classic Spanish punch made with red wine, chopped fruit, and a bit of brandy or soda. Though this drink is famous worldwide, you’ll find traditional sangria found right here in Alcalá de Henares! 

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN ALCALÁ DE HENARES

Have you ever read Don Quixote? Considered one of the most important books of all time, this valuable piece of Spanish literature was written by Miguel de Cervantes, one of Spain’s greatest literary minds. Cervantes was born in Alcalá de Henares in 1547 in a modest two-story home that today is a museum. Transport yourself to the 16th century with a tour of the Cervantes Birthplace Museum. In its carefully preserved rooms, you’ll find historical paintings, antique furniture, and vintage décor while learning about this talented author’s impressive life.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Alcalá de Henares

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Alcalá de Henares:

• Museo Casa Natal de Cervantes: Get ready to step into the world of Spain’s most famous writer! This museum was built in the actual house where Miguel de Cervantes was born. You can explore the beautifully restored home and see what life was like in the 16th and 17th centuries.
• Corral de Comedias: This is one of the oldest and most beautiful theaters in all of Europe, and it's still in use today! You can take a tour of the theater to see its unique design, which dates way back to the 1600s.
• Museo Arqueológico y Paleontológico: If want an intimate look at the history of the Madrid region, this museum is where to go. It has a fantastic collection of artifacts from the prehistoric time of the area all the way to today’s modern era. 

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