What is smithy?

What Does smithy Mean

In order to know the meaning of the term smithy, it is essential to discover, first, its etymological origin. In this case, we can establish that it derives from the word blacksmith, which emanates from Latin, specifically from “ferrarius”, which means “the one who works with iron” and that it is the result of the sum of two well-differentiated lexical components:

- The noun “ferrum”, which can be translated as “iron”.

-The suffix “-ero”, which is used to indicate “trade” or “profession”.

The smithy is the activity of the blacksmith : the individual who is dedicated to working iron . The workshop and business premises of these people are also called blacksmithing .
Iron is a metal malleable and ductile high strength that, besides being part of substances essential for life, is the material used industrially. The smithy is linked to the artisan work carried out by those who are in charge of forging it.

In general, iron is subjected to a heat source so that, upon reaching the required temperature, it can be molded by the acquired malleability. With hammers and other instruments, the blacksmith expert gives the metal the shape he wants.
The blacksmith must pay attention to the color that the iron takes due to the action of heat, since that tone indicates whether it is possible to advance with the forging or not. The metal, when heated, turns red and then mutates to yellow. It is common for blacksmith shops to have poor lighting so that the blacksmith can easily observe these changes.
Among the tools and devices used in blacksmithing, there are the forge (the place where iron is subjected to heat), the forge (the hearth), the tongs (to manipulate the incandescent metal) and the anvil (a metal block on which is hammered).
Bars, sculptures, ornaments, bells, pieces of furniture, weapons and kitchen utensils are some of the products that are made through the smithy. Many times the finish of the work determines its value.
In the same way, we cannot overlook what is known as Herrería de Compludo. In the Leonese town of Compludo is where this place is found, which has become one of the best examples of medieval industry that has managed to be preserved over time.
In the 7th century, according to various theories, this space originated, associated with the founding of the Complugo Monastery by San Fructuoso, which allows us to know the way in which the forge was used to shape a hydraulic system.
In addition, in Seville there is a unique accommodation that responds to the name of Suites Herrería de la Maestranza. In the heart of the city, specifically in Calle General Castaños, is where this set of apartments is located to offer visitors a comfortable place where they can rest during their stay in the city. An enclave that takes as a building the old Atarazanas complex, dating from the 13th century and which was a naval factory for the Crown.

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