An unusual exhibition has opened in the Spanish capital, inviting adults to relive the carefree days of childhood. The cultural complex El Águila, located at 3 Ramirez de Prado Street, hosts an exhibition dedicated to toys that were popular among Spanish children from the 1940s to the 1980s. Dozens of items are on display—once found in store windows and children’s rooms—from cardboard dolls to the famous Barriguitas and the elegant Nancy.
Visitors can see not only dolls, but also rare board games, electric racetracks, projectors, and even miniature household appliances. Each item is a piece of history, reflecting the tastes, dreams, and lifestyles of an entire generation. Back then, children would spend hours outside, inventing games with balls, jump ropes, or simply drawing with chalk on the pavement.
Immersing visitors in the spirit of decades past
Organizers have created several themed zones so that guests can fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of bygone years. There’s a recreated family living room, a child’s bedroom, a doll room, as well as scenes of street games and the long-awaited Christmas morning. Every corner is filled with details that revive memories of simple joys and traditions from that era.
Particular attention is paid to iconic toys: here you can find the classic Nancy in the 1973 Iberia stewardess outfit, the CinExin projector with Disney cartoons, as well as the renowned Juegos Reunidos Geyper game set and the Exin mini-blender. All the exhibits come from private collectors and archives, making the exhibition truly one of a kind.
Tours, schedule, and how to visit
Those interested in learning more about each exhibit can join guided tours led by the collection’s owner, José Antonio Quiroga. However, all spots are fully booked for the coming months, and new dates will be announced later.
Visitors can receive a colorful catalogue with photos and archival materials free of charge, or download it digitally. The exhibition is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00, and on Sundays and holidays until lunchtime only. Admission is free; the only closures are on major winter holidays.
Getting to El Águila is easy: it’s near Delicias metro station (Line 3), commuter trains C1 and C10, and EMT buses 8, 19, and 45.
Who this exhibition is for
The exhibition is designed for a broad audience: parents can show children what their grandparents used to play with, while collectors can deepen their knowledge of rare items. For many guests, it’s a chance to relive the emotions tied to their favorite toys and share memories with loved ones.
The exhibition will run until February 8, 2026, and promises to be one of Madrid’s brightest cultural events of the winter.
