Are There Catacombs in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re interested in the history and culture of Madrid, then you may have heard about the presence of catacombs, which are underground tombs or burial sites. But are there really catacombs in Madrid The answer is both yes and no.

Let’s start with the “no” part. Unlike Paris or Rome, Madrid does not have a large network of underground tunnels that served as burial sites. However, there are a few underground structures that were used for burials and can be considered catacombs in a loose sense.

One of the most famous of these is the Crypt at the Almudena Cathedral. Located beneath the altar, this crypt contains tombs and sarcophagi of various members of Spanish royalty and religious figures. Its walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes, making it an interesting place to visit for those interested in art as well as history.

Another site that can be considered a catacomb is the Royal Pantheon at San Isidro Church. This underground chamber was originally built in the 17th century to serve as a burial site for members of Madrid’s aristocracy. Today, it houses tombs and coffins belonging to various important figures from Spanish history.

Moving on to the “yes” part – while Madrid may not have extensive catacombs like other cities do, there are still some places where you can explore underground tunnels and chambers.

One such place is Casa de la Panadería, which is located on Plaza Mayor. This historic building has a basement level that was once used as a prison but now houses an exhibition space. Visitors can descend into this basement and walk through its narrow corridors to get a sense of what life must have been like for those imprisoned here centuries ago.

Another interesting site is the Secretos del Madrid subterranean tour. This tour takes visitors on an exploration of various underground tunnels and chambers throughout the city, including parts of the old city wall and hidden crypts. It’s a fascinating way to discover some of Madrid’s hidden history and see parts of the city that are off the beaten track.

In conclusion, while Madrid may not have extensive catacombs like some other cities, there are still some interesting underground sites worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to see a different side of the city, these underground spaces offer a unique glimpse into Madrid’s past.