Madrid - Puerta del Sol

Spanish for 'Gate of the Sun', Puerta del Sol is one of Madrid's most common tourist destinations. At its center lies the paving slab just outside the Casa de Correos that marks the spot from which radiates the six major highways traversing Spain. It really is a fantastic point from which to start to explore this delightful part of the city.

The gates were once the entrance to Madrid. Like several medieval towns it was surrounded inside the 15th century by a protective wall. Via the gate passed traders and visitors from all over the known world. It gradually grew to an essential meeting location for significant merchants and politicians.

Visitors will come across here a number of attractions. There's the significant sculpture of a bear eating the fruit of the madrone tree, for example. The name 'Madrid' derives from the Spanish word for this plant and the bear is really a potent symbol for the madrilenos.

At the beginning of Alcala Street, in front of the Regina Hotel, it is possible to pause and take in two outstanding examples of architecture. Pause to admire the statues atop these banks and then move on down the road.

At the House of the Post Office you come upon one of Madrid's most vital buildings. Built in 1768 and housing a giant clock with faces on each and every side of the tower, it truly is the central point for the New Year celebrations. In the course of the standard festival for eating the Twelve Grapes, the clock will chime out. The joyous occasion has been broadcast live from this point for over 40 years now.

Appreciate the sight of the statue of Charles III there, honored for his numerous public works programs. Currently the point is ablaze at night with the sign of Tio Pepe. Here, too, is the Mariblanca statue of Venus. Actually, the sculpture can be a replica of the original within the Municipal Museum.

Mainly because of its location and prominence within the life of Madrid, the Puerta naturally serves as the focal point for lots of political protests. Vigorous, but not dangerous, you may see one during your check out.

Not far away are dozens of shops, restaurants along with other attractions. The El Corte Ingles department store is always a popular draw for tourists and the bars are busy from early in the evening until early the next morning. Some are just finding started at 1 a.m.! Street music is often 'on the menu' as well.

The area is a short walk from the Plaza Mayor and the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) so you will be well positioned to take pleasure in those other fine sights of Madrid, too. Parliament isn't far away and there's a Metro station underneath the square. You will find dozens of side streets full of shops and interesting restaurants, so explore!