Puerta del Sol

Now the heart of Madrid's historic center, this site used to be on the eastern border of the city. The plaza's name originates from the eastern city gate located here in the 15th century. The gate was probably called after a sun drawn on it, hence the name Puerta del Sol or 'Sun Gate'. The current semi-oval square was created in the 19th century.

In the middle of the square is a large equestrian statue of King Carlos III. The King looks out to a beautiful 18th century red brick building, the former main post office. In front of this building on the pavement is the 'kilometer 0' plaque, marking the center of the Spanish road network. It is the starting point from where all the highway distances are measured.

The Puerta del Sol is also the location of the symbol of Madrid: a 20 ton statue of a bear eating fruits from a tree. The official name of the statue is 'El Oso y El Madroño'. The Madroño is a tree related to the strawberry tree.