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Puerta Del Sol, Madrid. Photo by Tammer Salem-

Top 10 Remarkable Facts about Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is a public square in Madrid, one of the best-known and bustling places in the city. This is the center of six Spanish roads.

Puerta del Sol is full of incredible history and culture, which take you on a journey to discover Spain’s origin.

Learn more about Puerta del Sol in these top 10 remarkable facts.

1. Puerta del Sol is Home to King Charles III Statue

Sculpture of King Charles III. Photo by Limbyungjei-

This statue of King Charles III is one of him on horseback. He was the king who came from Naples and changed the face of Madrid.

When King Charles III arrived in Spain to assume the throne, he complained about the dirtiness, the unpaved streets, the lack of statues and the lack of public lighting. He started making important improvements.

His statue was placed at Puerta del Sol as a token of appreciation for all his amazing transformations when he assumed the throne. His statues dominated the center of the square and were placed there by popular demand.

King Charles was nicknamed 鈥渢he best King of Madrid,鈥� making the statue a remarkable landmark to visit during your trip.

2. The Casa de Correos in Puerta de Sol

The Casa de Correos is the oldest building in the square and it was built by a French architect named Jacques Marquet. It was established between 1766 and 1768 and used as the city’s main post office.

The building has the most know clock, which dates back to 1866. The clock bells ring at important times and during celebrations throughout the city, one being during New Year’s Eve.

During New Year鈥檚 Eve in 2018-2019, the clock, for the first time in history, the clock bells rang in accordance with the schedule of the Canary Islands. Many people gather here to bring in the New Year.

Casa de Correos is now used as the office of the president of Madrid, the head of the regional government of the Autonomous Community of Madrid.

3. Puerta del Sol has the Kilometer Zero Plaque

Kilometer Zero. Photo by Basilio-

Kilometer zero is a plaque on the ground directly north of the post office, serving as the symbolic center of Spain. It marked the starting point of the main six roads in Spain in the 18th century.

The original stone was put back in 2009 and is now more colorful and easier to spot from a long way. When in Puerta de Sol, don鈥檛 miss it.

4. Puerta del Sol is Home to The Bear and the Strawberry Tree Statue

The Bear and the Strawberry Tree portray the coat of arms of Madrid, with a tree taller than the bear, who holds up his paws on the trunk and directs his attention towards one of the fruits.

The statue has always been in Puerta del Sol in two locations. Before 1986 it was on the east side between Calle de Alcala and the Carrera St. Jeronimo. It was moved to the front of Carmen Street for the squares reform.

In September 2009, with the constitutive renewal of the square promoted by Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon, the statues were returned to the original locals.

5. Puerta del Sol is Dominated by Enormous Tio Pepe Sign

Photo by 脕lvaro Ib谩帽ez-

The enormous Tio Pepe sign is one of the most iconic advertisements in the city. Tio Pepe is a brand of sherry owned by the Gonzalez Byass Sherry house made of palomino grapes.

The sign has existed on the square since 1936 but has been moved, renovated, and brought back several times. Tio Pepe is a joyous symbol for tourists and locals that shines over the square at night, lighting up the skyline.

6. La Mallorguina, One of the Most Famous Bakeries in Madrid, is Found in Puerta del Sol

Spain is known in Europe for producing some of the most delicious pastries and sweet treats. La Mallorquina is one of the most famous bakeries in Madrid and it found in Puerta del Sol.

The bakery was established in 1894 and is still in the same location. The bakery is popular for its napolitana, a delicious pastry filled with custard cream or chocolate, a must to try when you visit.

7. Puerta del Sol Square Links Many Commercial Places

The square links several commercial and recreational areas together. It and the surrounding street consist mainly of shopping establishments catering to locals and tourists.

The area has several El Corte Ingles department store buildings in Preciados, La Mallorquina caf茅 and numerous ever-changing restaurants.

Puerta del Sol area remains active late into the night and early morning since nearby bars and dance often only begin entertainment at 1 am. Street music is also regular in the area.

8. Under the Puerta del Sol lies a Public Transport

Photo by Braniff747SP-

A public transport hub lies under the square served by lines 1, 2 and 3 of the Madrid Metro. On June 27, 2009, the commuter service was inaugurated four years behind schedule.

The delay in the construction was caused by the discovery of the remains of the Church of Our Lady of Good Success at the time of excavating the main chamber.

The new station links the Puerta to Madrid鈥檚 commuter rail system and, in addition to Spain鈥檚 railroads via direct connections to Atocha and Chamart铆n railway stations.

9. Puerta del Sol has Perfect Spots for Coffee

Spain is known for its delicious delicacies. A walk away from the church of San Gines, you will find a small caf茅. Cafes are an important part of Spanish culture, and locals often meet daily in local caf茅 bars to socialize.

San Gines in Puerta del Sol is the ideal location to enjoy a coffee in the sun while snacking on traditional snacks on offer.

10. There is a Classical Garden Around Puerta del Sol

Just a few miles away from Puerta del Sol is Sabatini Gardens; these are classical-style gardens built in the 1930s. The gardens are a great contrast to the busy plaza and you spend a day here enjoying the sun, strolling and relaxing.

The gardens are an extension of the Royal Palace and are filled with marble sculptures, trees and fountains. Once you visit, you will enjoy gazing at the breathtaking palace and escape the bust streets for a moment of tranquility.