Black and white photo of the car involved in the assassination attempt on Spanish president Blanco in Madrid on May 31, 1974, showing damage before a bomb explosion on the balcony of a third-floor building

Assassination Of Luis Carrero Blanco

Visiting the Site of the Assassination of Luis Carrero Blanco: Madrid, Spain — Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The assassination of Admiral Luis Carrero Blanco in Madrid remains one of the most consequential events in Spain’s 20th-century history. On December 20, 1973, Carrero Blanco, Franco’s appointed Prime Minister and designated successor, was assassinated by the Basque separatist group ETA. This attack sent shockwaves through the Francoist regime, marking a pivotal moment that catalyzed Spain’s transition toward democracy. Today, visitors can explore two key sites associated with this historic event: the Luis Carrero Blanco Monument in the Chamberí district and the assassination site itself on Calle de Claudio Coello near the Church of San Francisco de Borja in the Salamanca district.

This guide provides detailed historical context, practical visitor information—including hours, tickets, accessibility, and transportation—and tips for exploring both the monument and the assassination site. It also highlights nearby cultural attractions, such as the Museo Reina Sofía and Parque del Oeste, ensuring your visit is both educational and enriching. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this article equips you with everything you need for a meaningful experience.

For the most current information and additional resources, refer to the Madrid Tourism Official Website, Museo Reina Sofía’s exhibits on the Spanish transition, and contemporary coverage from Time Magazine.

Introduction
Historical Background
- The Francoist Regime and Luis Carrero Blanco
- Basque Nationalism and ETA
About the Luis Carrero Blanco Monument
Visiting Information
The Assassination Site on Calle Claudio Coello
Nearby Attractions
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Background

The Francoist Regime and Luis Carrero Blanco

After the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), General Francisco Franco established a dictatorship that ruled Spain for nearly four decades. Luis Carrero Blanco, a high-ranking naval officer and Franco’s most trusted advisor, rose to prominence as Prime Minister in June 1973. His loyalty and conservative stance made him a central figure in Franco’s succession plans.

Basque Nationalism and ETA

Franco’s regime suppressed regional identities, especially in the Basque Country. This repression fueled resistance movements, particularly ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna), founded in 1959 to fight for Basque independence. ETA’s campaign included armed attacks and culminated in Carrero Blanco’s assassination, which dramatically altered Spain’s political trajectory.

About the Luis Carrero Blanco Monument

Located in Madrid’s Chamberí district, the Luis Carrero Blanco Monument commemorates his legacy and Spain’s turbulent transition period. The monument invites reflection on the nation’s authoritarian past and the events that shaped its democracy.

Alt text: Luis Carrero Blanco Monument standing tall in Madrid’s Chamberí district

Location: Plaza de la Moncloa, Chamberí, Madrid
Visiting Hours: Open 24/7 (outdoor monument)
Admission: Free
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with paved walkways

Getting There

Metro: Moncloa (Lines 3, 6) and Argüelles (Lines 3, 4, 6)
Bus: Multiple lines serve Moncloa bus station
Parking: Limited street parking; public garages nearby

The Assassination Site on Calle Claudio Coello

Location and Setting

The assassination occurred on Calle de Claudio Coello, near the Church of San Francisco de Borja, in the upscale Salamanca district (Time, 1973). The attack took place just outside the church, where Carrero Blanco attended daily Mass. The area features elegant architecture and remains largely unchanged, allowing visitors to connect with the events of 1973.

Address: Iglesia de San Francisco de Borja, Calle de Serrano, 104, Madrid
Nearest Metro Stations: Rubén Darío (Line 5), Núñez de Balboa (Lines 5, 9), Gregorio Marañón (Lines 7, 10)

Site Features and Accessibility

Church: Open daily for Mass and reflection; respectful attire required
Assassination Site: No official plaque or memorial, but the spot can be identified using historical images
Accessibility: Flat terrain with wide sidewalks and curb cuts

Political Context and Impact

The assassination created an immediate power vacuum in the Francoist regime. Franco appointed Carlos Arias Navarro as Prime Minister, whose moderate reforms could not restore the regime’s legitimacy. The attack galvanized opposition groups and played a key role in Spain’s eventual transition to democracy (Official Spanish History Archives). ETA’s operation also demonstrated the vulnerabilities of the dictatorship and elevated the group’s international profile.

Visiting Information

Church Hours: Typically open 8:00 AM–1:30 PM and 5:00 PM–8:30 PM (varies on holidays)
Admission: Free, no reservation required
Photography: Permitted outside; be discreet indoors
Accessibility: Suitable for wheelchairs and those with mobility challenges

Guided Tours

Several walking tour companies offer specialized 20th-century history tours that stop at the assassination site, providing detailed context. Tours typically last 2–3 hours and cost €15–€30. No tickets are required for independent visits.

Nearby Attractions

Museo Reina Sofía: Exhibits on Spain’s civil war and transition (Museo Reina Sofía)
Plaza de Colón: Major public square with historical significance
Museo del Prado: Renowned art museum
Cafés and Restaurants: Upscale dining and coffee shops abound in Salamanca
Parque del Oeste: Popular park near the monument

Tips for Visitors

Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds
Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera
Combine your visit with nearby attractions for a broader historical perspective
Engage in guided tours for a deeper understanding of Spain’s political evolution
Be mindful of local sensitivities when discussing the Franco era and ETA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee to visit the monument or assassination site?
A: No, both are free to visit and accessible year-round.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several local companies offer historical tours including these sites.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the streets and walkways are accessible.

Q: Are there any memorials or plaques at the assassination site?
A: There is no official memorial, but the church and streetscape remain unchanged.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is allowed outside; discretion is advised inside the church.

Conclusion

Exploring the Luis Carrero Blanco Monument and the site of his assassination offers a profound connection to a defining chapter of Spanish history. Together, these sites symbolize the end of an era and the beginning of Spain’s democratic transformation. Both locations are accessible, free to visit, and surrounded by historical and cultural attractions. To gain the most from your visit, consider joining a guided tour and using resources such as the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date information.

For the latest visitor details and additional travel inspiration, visit the Madrid Tourism Official Website and explore related articles on Madrid’s historical landmarks.