Talking about Madrid without mentioning La Puerta del Sol is impossible, this large square is not only a symbol of identity for Madrilenians, but is also known throughout Spain. If you are going for a walk in Madrid and want to visit one of its must-see places, then you have to set off towards Puerta del Sol.
During medieval times, it was usual for important cities to be surrounded by a wall, which protected it and marked the limits between the areas that could be considered urban and those that could not.
In Madrid, one of these walls pointed directly towards the horizon, which is why it was adorned with a sun. Next to this wall, already on the outskirts of the metropolis, there was a small space, which was a meeting place for those who lived near Madrid but did not really belong to the city.
Already in the 18th century, there were a few buildings and churches around the place. Although it was still far from resembling the current Puerta del Sol.
As the centuries passed, the Spanish capital grew and exceeded the borders of the walls. The space that had previously been only a clear place where the residents of the area met, became a small square, which would later be known as La Puerta del Sol.
Today, Puerta del Sol is one of the most recognizable spaces in Madrid, which every day welcomes hundreds and even thousands of people, both locals and visitors.
In addition, it is also home to different important buildings, such as the Royal Post Office and the now-defunct Iglesia del Buen Suceso. Likewise, in the Plaza del Sol all the numbering of the radial roads of Spain begins, this point is known as Kilometer Zero and is one of the busiest meeting places in the city.
Of course, La Puerta del Sol has its own sculptures, among which the equestrian statue of King Carlos III and the famous Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree stand out.
As you might expect, this is also one of Madrid’s main commercial centers. Here we can find bars, cafes, restaurants, and many types of shops, including some that have been operating for centuries.
If you are passionate about history, here you will find many curiosities that recall Madrid’s long past.
If you are visiting Madrid and want to go to Puerta del Sol, then you are in luck. This is one of the best connected points in the whole city, it has numerous bus lines, its own metro station and also a railway station.
In the same way, near the square there are many hotels and hostels, so you could even stay near it. Also, you should know that Puerta del Sol is a free entry place, and you can be there as long as you want.
Entering the Puerta del Sol is to take a walk through the contemporary culture of Madrid, since it has been the protagonist of various series, novels and works of literature.
Ready to get to know this special place? Remember, see you at Puerta del Sol!
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