Puerta del Sol

About

Centrally located in the heart of Madrid, Puerta del Sol is a bustling, pedestrian‑only square that has become an emblem of the city. As the symbolic kilometre‑zero point from which all radial roads radiate, it draws thousands of locals and tourists every day. Highlights include the iconic clock of the Casa de Correos, which rings the traditional twelve grapes bells on New Year’s Eve, the bronze statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree—the city’s heraldic symbol—and the sculptural equestrian monument to King Charles III. The square also houses the marble “Mariblanca” statue and the pavement plate of the Kilometre Cero, where visitors often take photos. Puerta del Sol’s lively ambience is amplified by the surrounding historic streets—Mayor, Arenal, Alcalá and Preciados—filled with cafés, shops, and street musicians. Pedestrianised since August 2020, the plaza remains open around the clock, offering an unfettered, free‑entry experience for travelers seeking a quintessential Madrid landmark.