Crafting the Last Footprints
Crafting the Last Footprints
Deep in the rolling hills of Cantabria, Spain, master artisan Rafael Cosío carries on a centuries-old tradition — the crafting of Albarcas, wooden shoes once worn by farmers and villagers to weather the rugged countryside. Each pair begins as a solid block of wood and, through careful carving and rhythmic precision, is shaped into something both functional and deeply beautiful.
In this intimate short film by Prince Berkoh, we step into Rafael’s quiet workshop — where the sound of his knife meeting wood becomes a kind of music, and where time seems to slow in reverence for a way of life nearly forgotten. Through his patience, humor, and humility, Rafael reminds us what it means to be connected — to craft, to culture, and to the stories we pass forward through our hands.
Film Maker
Prince Berkoh
Spain
Prince is a filmmaker and photographer based in Spain, known for creating cinematic stories that feel authentic and emotionally grounded, with a strong care for visually appealing films. Drawing inspiration from real people and natural environments, his work bridges documentary and commercial filmmaking, highlighting the beauty of everyday life and the power of human connection.
Drawing from his photography background, and with experience across branded content, travel films, and character-driven documentaries, Prince brings a thoughtful approach to every project. Whether capturing a quiet moment in nature or telling a brand’s story, his goal remains the same: to craft visuals that resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression.
Film Master
Rafael Cosío
- Craft
- Albarquero
- Country
- Spain
Rafa is one of the last remaining albarqueros in Spain.
Born and raised in Cantabria, he began carving albarcas at the age of 16. After working in the mines as a young man, he returned to his true passion: woodworking. Now 80, Rafa continues to craft albarcas by hand in his small workshop, more out of love for the craft than necessity. His work has reached celebrities, been exported to Mexico, and even been made for Spain’s former king. With every pair he carves, Rafa keeps alive a tradition that endures against time.