Madrid: Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is a major square, and the de facto center of Madrid. In fact, the square is not only the center of Madrid; it can also be described as the center of Spain as the point which is "Kilometer Zero", or the center point of the radial network of Spanish roads, is located on Puerta del Sol.

Puerta del Sol was never planned as a central square, but rather grew into one over the centuries, starting in the 15th century when one of the city gates of Madrid was located on the spot. Several major arteries of the road network of Madrid connects to the square. Many of which today are partly pedestrianized. And the whole area around the square is fully pedestrianized since 2020. The translation of the name into English is "Gate of the Sun".

Picture Gallery

Puerta del Sol is also one of the busiest metro stations in Madrid.

The design of the entrance doesn't fit with the classical architecture that otherwise corners the square, but I still think it works reasonably in this instance.

A view of Puerta del Sol looking West over the square.

The building to the left with the clocktower (that is cut short on this picture) is the Real Casa de Correos. It was originally built as a Post Office, and the name translates into "The Royal House of the Post Office". Today it serves as the office of the President of the Community of Madrid.

In front of the Real Casa de Correos is also where you will find the actual "Kilometer Zero" plate.

The Eastern end of the square with the statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, and Calle de Alcalá.

A statue of Charles III of Spain (Carlos III de España).

Looking towards Calle de la Montera, one of several pedestrianized streets radiating out from Puerta del Sol.

Carrera de San Jerónimo is a major street connecting to the square from the East.

Calle de la Montera.

Yet another view of Calle de la Montera.

The Western end of the Square.

Calle del Carmen is another pedestrianized street going North from Puerta del Sol.

The Eastern end of the Square.

The reign of Charles III of Spain is best known for the many reforms of the Spanish society he enacted. Most of the reforms were towards the overseas territories (colonies) of the Spanish Empire, for whom he reverted autonomy and brought them under stricter control of the Central Government.

A closer look at the statue.

The "Tío Pepe" sign is a famous and historic feature of Puerta del Sol. It's an advertising sign for a brand of Sherry (Wine). This sign has been a part of the square since 1936.

The Eastern end of the Square with Calle de Alcalá to the left and Carrera de San Jerónimo to the right.

One of two large fountains found on Puerta del Sol.

Calle del Arenal connects to the Square from the North-West.

Puerta del Sol.

You will undoubtedly visit Puerta del Sol if you do a sightseeing tour of Madrid, and I'm sure you will consider it as one of the highlights of the tour.