The "corral de comedias" was a type of open-air theater popular in Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries. These venues were typically rectangular and featured a central courtyard surrounded by seating areas for the audience. The design allowed for performances of various genres, including comedy, tragedy, and drama, attracting diverse crowds. Actors performed in the corral de comedias, often using minimal props and relying on their skills to engage the audience. Notable playwrights like Lope de Vega and Tirso de Molina wrote plays specifically for these theaters, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of the Spanish Golden Age.