Taberna Antonio Sánchez

THE oldest taberna in Madrid, founded by picador Colita and NEVER renovated. Gas lamps still functional. Frescoes of 19th-century bullfighters Frascuelo, Lagartijo, and Cara Ancha still on the walls - they drank wine here. You're drinking in a museum that hasn't changed in 150 years.

What to do there

4 things to do

1. 1 Enter the Time Capsule History · Free

   Step into THE oldest taberna in Madrid - founded by picador Colita and NEVER renovated. Notice the gas lamps still work at Taberna Antonio Sánchez (Calle Mesón de Paredes, 13, Lavapiés). Metro to Lavapiés (L3). Open afternoons/evenings. No reservations needed - just walk in.

   Backup: If packed, grab a spot at the bar. Standing is traditional anyway.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Find the Bullfighter Frescoes History · Free

   Locate the frescoes depicting Frascuelo, Lagartijo, and Cara Ancha - 19th century bullfighting legends who drank wine here. Their faces are preserved on the interior walls of Taberna Antonio Sánchez. Ask the bartender to point them out if you can't find them. The carved wooden decorations and friezes are also original.

   Backup: Take photos (allowed here) - this is a living museum.

   Log Memory
3. 3 Order the House Wine Wine · Price: low

   Order 'vino de la casa' - the same style of wine poured here for 150+ years at the bar counter. Point at the barrel or say 'Un vaso de tinto, por favor' (€2-3). Pair with a tapa of whatever they're serving - often tortilla or croquetas.

   Backup: If they're out of barrel wine, any Vinos de Madrid red captures the spirit.

   Log Memory
4. 4 Find the Bronze Centenario Plate Adventure · Free · Optional

   Look down at the entrance to Taberna Antonio Sánchez - businesses over 100 years old in Madrid receive a decorative bronze plate at their entrance. These plates mark living history throughout the city and are free to find.

   Backup: Keep looking for these bronze plates at other historic tabernas on Day 2.

   Log Memory