Travel Guide - Around Madrid

Puerta del Sol (Gateway of the Sun)

This square, which marks the site of the eastern entrance into the city, was once the site of a gatehouse and castle. Hence the name. Although the gateway had already been destroyed by 1570, the name remained.

To this day the square is a focal point of the city and of Spain herself, as many historical events took place here. In 1766 the revolt against Carl III by the people of Spain broke out in this square. In 1808 over 2000 Spaniards died here in an unsuccessful attempt to revolt against Napoleon’s foreign rule over Spain. In 1931 Spain was proclaimed to be a Republic. In the middle of this square lies the 0 milestone, a point crossed by six of the city’s main highways which then stretch throughout the land. As tradition has it, anyone who stands on this stone will surely return to Madrid.
There is also a statue standing on this square of a bear picking strawberries off a plant (Oso y Madrono). This image can even be found on the city’s coat of arms.

The square, which hasn’t changed much since 1861, is the starting point for many city tours, which can really be helpful to visitors, especially for first timers in Madrid. As in all of Madrid’s large squares, there are plenty of stands and stores to stroll along and do some shopping.

While taking a Spanish Language Course in Madrid be sure to head over to Puerta del Sol to enjoy an afternoon in the sun and the charming surroundings.