Puerta del Sol is one of the most famous squares in Madrid and the meeting point par excellence for locals and tourists alike. It is home to some of the capital’s most significant landmarks and buildings, such as Kilometre Zero.
The history of Madrid’s Puerta del Sol is divided into several stages. It began with the construction of the Casa de Correos in the mid-18th century, the oldest building in the square, which today houses the headquarters of the Presidency of the Community of Madrid.
A century later, between 1857 and 1862, the Puerta del Sol took its definitive form thanks to the architects Lucio del Valle, Juan Rivera and José Morer, who designed the rest of the buildings that make up this historic square. In the 20th century, the gardens and fountain were added and the pedestrian area was increased.
What to see in Puerta del Sol
In Puerta del Sol you will find three nationally known places:
- Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree: at the entrance of Alcalá street we find the statue of the symbol of Madrid: The Bear and the Strawberry Tree. It was built in 1967 and is one of the most popular meeting points in the capital.
- The Clock of the Casa de Correos: known throughout Spain for being the place from where the famous chimes of the Puerta del Sol have been rung every New Year ‘s Eve since 1962. Every year thousands of people congregate at Puerta del Sol to eat grapes and celebrate the new year.
- Kilometre Zero: this is the point where the Spanish radial roads begin. Kilometre Zero at Puerta del Sol is signposted and tourists do not leave Madrid without their photo on it.
Puerta del Sol has also seen some key events in Madrid’s history, including the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931.
