Casa Ciriaco

Serving since 1887, backdrop to the near-assassination of King Alfonso XIII on his wedding procession in 1906. A photo of the attempted regicide hangs on the wall - it happened RIGHT OUTSIDE. The wine kept flowing. Turn-of-the-century tavern vibe intact.

What to do there

4 things to do

1. 1 Find the Assassination Photo History · Free

   Locate the photograph of the attempted assassination of King Alfonso XIII on his wedding day in 1906 on the walls inside Casa Ciriaco (Calle Mayor, 84) — it happened RIGHT OUTSIDE this window. Take Metro to Ópera (L2/L5) and ask the bartender 'Dónde está la foto del atentado?' They're used to the question.

   Backup: Staff can tell you the full story if the photo is hard to spot.

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2. 2 Toast at the Scene Wine · Price: low

   Order a glass of wine at the same bar counter where glasses kept clinking even as anarchist Mateo Morral threw his bomb at the royal carriage outside Casa Ciriaco. Say 'Un vino tinto, por favor' (€3-4) and toast at history's most dramatic scene. The house wine is perfectly serviceable for such a momentous spot.

   Backup: If you prefer, vermouth is also traditional here.

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3. 3 Read the Historical Context History · Free

   Learn that Morral's bomb missed the king but killed 23 bystanders — Alfonso XIII and Victoria Eugenia continued to the palace, covered in blood from the injured. Ask staff near the photo or around the bar; they know the story well, and the turn-of-the-century tavern vibe remains intact from that chaotic day.

   Backup: Wikipedia has detailed accounts if you want to read before/after your visit.

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4. 4 Walk the Royal Procession Route Adventure · Free · Optional

   Walk the same route the wedding procession took in 1906 along Calle Mayor from the Royal Palace toward Puerta del Sol, passing Casa Ciriaco where the bomb was thrown. This free walk traces history's steps — the city installs plaques marking historical events along the way.

   Backup: A general Madrid walking tour will often include this story.

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