One of the most beloved dishes by Madrid residents is the squid sandwich. It’s quite curious: how did this sandwich with a seafood ingredient make its way to an inland city like Madrid?

It turns out Madrid has always been a big fan of fish. So much so that, in the 16th century, fish was transported from various coastal areas of Spain to Madrid in ice containers to preserve it as best as possible. Often, the result wasn’t great, and the fish ended up unfit for consumption.

Even so, large quantities kept arriving in the capital, and fish—especially squid—became one of the most typical lunches for Madrid locals.

Some believe this was due to Catholic religious restrictions that prohibited eating meat at certain times. Others say the lack of sea access and the rarity of fish turned it into a luxury in Madrid.

Back then, consuming any kind of nutrients was crucial, which is why this dish included bread—to fill the stomach and make the most of its calories.

Although we may never know for sure the origin of this sandwich, it has long brought joy to diners in Madrid. A dish with such a unique flavor and unforgettable smell that it has become one of Madrid’s favorites.