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Madrid's old town is hiding centuries of mysteries, dark legends, and secrets that most visitors never get to hear. Ready to dig into the hidden history of the city?

Madrid's old town is hiding centuries of mysteries, dark legends, and secrets that most visitors never get to hear. Ready to dig into the hidden history of the city?

Tour Details

At the designated time, we'll meet in front of the Monasterio de la Encarnación in Plaza de la Encarnación. Founded in 1611, this monastery contains many a notorious secret... let's dive in!

After our initial introduction to Madrid's dark side, we'll stroll over to the Royal Palace, where the ghost of Philip II is said to wander in search of lost treasure, and then to the Teatro Real, haunted according to legend by a woman in white.

We'll continue through Calle de San Nicolás and Calle del Sacramento, among the oldest streets in the city and, as we'll discover, hiding stories of centuries-old intrigue, secret affairs between communities that were officially forbidden from mixing, and the long shadow of the Spanish Inquisition, which turned neighbor against neighbor across Madrid.

From there, we'll reach the Plaza de la Villa, one of the most historically loaded squares in the city. For centuries, this was the civic heart of Madrid, a place where justice was publicly dealt out in ways that would make your hair stand on end, and where, if you listen to the locals, certain presences have never quite left.

Next, we'll stop at the church of San Ginés, one of the oldest in the city, where Lope de Vega was married, and Quevedo was baptised. The darker story here dates to the late 16th century, when thieves broke in for the church's gold and silenced a man praying in the dark. His ghost, so the legend goes, has kept watch ever since.

We'll finish at Puerta del Sol, and after 2 hours and 15 minutes exploring Madrid's hidden corners, we'll say our goodbyes right in the heart of the city.

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More Information

Duration

2h 15m.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

When to book?

You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • Printed material is avoided.
  • No single-use plastics are used.
  • The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Promotes local employment.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Pets

Permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Pixport Corporate name: Davide De Sanctis Registered Office: Calle Modesto Lafuente, 35, Madrid, Spain Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): Y1676618R Contact information Email: info@pixport.es Phone: +34 680 263 151 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Where does the activity end?

Monasterio de la Encarnación

Puerta del Sol

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Where does the activity end?

Puerta del Sol

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