Plaza de Cibeles

At its center is the Fuente de la Cibeles. This fountain, named after Cibele (or Ceres), roman goddess of nature, is seen as one of Madrid's most important symbols. The Cibeles fountain depicts the goddess in a chariot pulled by two lions. The fountain was built between 1777 and 1782 by Ventura Rodriguez. Whenever the local football team Real Madrid wins a cup, fans flock around the fountain to celebrate.

The most prominent of the buildings at the Plaza de Cibeles is the Palacio de Comunicaciones or Communications Palace. The cathedral-like landmark was built between 1905 and 1917 by Antonio Palacios as the headquarters of the post office. Inside the impressive building is the Postal and Telegraphic Museum, which displays the history of the postal system, from the 18th century postal pigeons to the modern communication satellites.

Across the Paseo de Prado from the Palacio de Comunicaciones is the Banco de España, Spain's central bank headquarters. The oldest part of the enormous building, bordering the Cibeles square, was built between 1882 and 1891. It was later expanded in 1936 and again in 1975. Inside, 30m below the surface is an area where the central bank stores its gold. Before modern security was installed, the room was flooded in case of danger.

Opposite the Banco de España is the Palacio de Linares. The baroque palace was built in 1873 by a rich banker, José de Murga. A century later, the building had fallen into disrepair but in 1992 it was completely renovated. It currently houses the Casa de América, a cultural center and art gallery focused mostly on Latin American arts. The building is said to be haunted by the spirits of its first owner, who made his fortune in the new world.