Historic Teatro de la Princesa building in Madrid in 1902

Teatro María Guerrero

Teatro María Guerrero Madrid: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Teatro María Guerrero, nestled in Madrid’s vibrant cultural center, stands as a monument to Spain’s theatrical legacy and ongoing artistic innovation. Since its opening in 1885 as the Teatro de la Princesa, it has evolved into the principal venue of the Centro Dramático Nacional and a cornerstone of Spanish drama. Blending neoclassical elegance with unique Neomudejar details, the theater offers visitors not only outstanding performances but also a journey through more than a century of cultural history (Madrid Es Teatro; Revive Madrid; esmadrid.com). This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, from practical details like opening hours and ticketing to historical highlights and tips for exploring nearby attractions.

Scene from the dramatic poem Mora de la Sierra at Teatro de la Princesa in 1907

Scene from the play Espigas de un haz by Rincón Lazcano at Teatro de la Princesa Madrid

Captain Ruiz de Alda giving a lecture on the Plus Ultra flight to Buenos Aires at Teatro de la Princesa with mechanic Rada in foreground

Spanish actress Rosario Pino surrounded by various theatrical authors at the Teatro de la Princesa farewell event

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Visitor Information
Special Events and Tours
Nearby Attractions and Dining
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Recommendations
Sources

History and Cultural Significance

Founding and Early Years

The theater opened in 1885 as Teatro de la Princesa, designed by Cesáreo Iradier. Its blend of neoclassical and modernist elements reflected the cultural aspirations of late 19th-century Madrid (Madrid Es Teatro). The venue quickly became a focal point for Madrid’s theatrical scene, hosting works by prominent Spanish playwrights.

María Guerrero’s Legacy

In 1908, acclaimed actress and pioneering theater entrepreneur María Guerrero, along with her husband Fernando Díaz de Mendoza, purchased and revitalized the theater. Under her visionary leadership, the venue became a flagship for Spanish drama and a platform for introducing new playwrights such as Jacinto Benavente and Benito Pérez Galdós (Revive Madrid; Taquilla.com). Guerrero’s influence was pivotal not only artistically but also socially, championing the role of women in the performing arts and fostering a vibrant intellectual environment.

In 1931, the venue was renamed Teatro María Guerrero to honor her enduring contributions.

Architectural Highlights

The theater’s neoclassical façade features a stately porch with columns, arched windows, and refined stonework, harmonizing with the literary heritage of the Barrio de las Letras (esmadrid.com). Inside, the grand foyer greets visitors with sculpted medallions and a portrait of María Guerrero. The ornate staircase, red velvet, and gold accents evoke the grandeur of Europe’s historic theaters.

The main auditorium, seating over 600, is shaped in a classic horseshoe for excellent acoustics and sightlines. Its Neomudejar rose window, crafted from polychrome glass and gold leaf, is a signature feature, casting a luminous glow over the audience (timeout.es).

A second space, the Sala de la Princesa, was added during the early 2000s restoration, offering an intimate setting for experimental performances (es.wikipedia.org).

Modern Role and Programming

Since 1978, Teatro María Guerrero has housed the Centro Dramático Nacional (CDN), Spain’s leading public theater institution. Its programming merges classical repertoire with contemporary and avant-garde works, often engaging with social themes and reflecting the diversity of modern Spanish society (Madrid Es Teatro; Revive Madrid).

Recent seasons have featured acclaimed productions such as “Orlando,” directed by Marta Pazos, and “Los de ahí” by Claudio Tolcachir—both emblematic of the theater’s commitment to innovation and social dialogue (Artículo14; El País).

Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Address: Calle de Tamayo y Baus, 4, 28004 Madrid
Neighborhood: Chueca-Justicia, near Gran Vía, Plaza de Colón, and the National Museum of Romanticism
Public Transport:
- Metro: Colón (L4), Banco de España (L2), Chueca (L5)
- Bus: EMT lines 5, 14, 27, 37, 45
- Train: Cercanías Recoletos station
- Car: Limited street parking (SER zone); nearby garages at Plaza de Colón and Calle Barquillo

Opening Hours

Box Office: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00–20:30 (closed Mondays unless there is a performance)
Performance Times: Most shows start at 19:00 or 20:00; matinees and special events may begin earlier
Building Access: Doors open about 30–45 minutes before the show

For current schedules and special openings, consult the Centro Dramático Nacional website.

Ticketing and Discounts

Purchase Options:
- Online (official ticketing portal)
- In person at the box office
- By phone: +34 91 193 93 21
Prices: Typically €9–€30, depending on production and seating
Discounts:
- Up to 50% for youth (under 30), seniors (65+), students, and unemployed
- Subscription packages and multi-show bundles available

Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for premieres and weekends.

Accessibility

Step-free access and adapted restrooms on all levels
Designated seating for wheelchair users
Infrared assisted listening devices available on request
Select performances with subtitles or audio descriptions (current program)
Guide dogs permitted

Details are available in the official accessibility guide (Spanish).

Facilities and Visitor Services

Main auditorium (Sala María Guerrero): 518 seats, classic horseshoe design (source)
Sala de la Princesa: 80-seat black-box space for contemporary works
Bar/café, cloakroom, free Wi-Fi, and merchandise sales
No formal dress code; smart casual recommended
Arrive 20–30 minutes early; late entry is generally restricted
Photography and recording during performances are prohibited; silence mobile devices

Special Events and Guided Tours

Backstage Tours: Offered on select dates by prior reservation (details)
Workshops and Talks: Regular post-show discussions and educational programs (current program)

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Museo del Romanticismo: 5 minutes’ walk (Museo del Romanticismo)
Gran Vía: 10 minutes’ walk; shopping, entertainment, and historic cafés
Dining:
- La Primera (Spanish cuisine)
- Celso y Manolo (tapas)
- Café Comercial (historic venue)

Combine your theater visit with a stroll through Madrid’s literary and artistic neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Teatro María Guerrero visiting hours?
A: Box office is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00–20:30. Closed Mondays unless there is a performance.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Buy online, at the box office, or by phone. Advance booking is advised.

Q: Is the theater accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, adapted restrooms, and assistive devices.

Q: Are there discounts?
A: Yes, for youth, seniors, students, unemployed, and subscription holders.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, on select dates with advance booking.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography and recording during performances are not permitted.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Teatro María Guerrero is not only an architectural treasure but also a living institution at the heart of Spain’s theatrical culture. Its historical roots, dynamic programming, and accessible facilities make it a must-see for visitors of all backgrounds. Reserve tickets in advance, consider joining a guided tour, and explore the surrounding cultural district for a rich Madrid experience. To streamline planning, download the Audiala app for ticketing and exclusive content. Teatro María Guerrero invites you to immerse yourself in the ongoing story of Spanish performing arts (Madrid Es Teatro; Revive Madrid; Centro Dramático Nacional).