Travelers can not afford to miss the renowned historical site of Puerta del Sol or Gate of Sun at Madrid.
About Puerta Del Sol Madrid
Puerta Del Sol or the ‘Gate of the Sun’ is a place of eminent importance and historical significance in Madrid. It is one of the most happening and busiest squares in Madrid and houses the traditional and world famous clock which heralds the beginning of New Year. The Puerto Del Sol was constructed as one of the gateways of the wall which guarded the city of Madrid in the 15th century. The gate faced the east and a symbol of the rising sun adorned the entrance of the gate, due to which the name is rightly Puerta Del Sol which means the "Gate of the Sun" in Spanish.
Location of Puerta Del Sol
This area was an important hub of meeting during the 17th to 19th century. Located in the heart of Madrid, the Puerta Del Sol is surrounded by the Plaza Mayor, the Palacio Real and the Parliament from all sides. The Railway Station of Atocha is also very near. The nearest metro station below the Square is Soli. The place is one of the busy spots of Madrid with lots of shopping
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arcades, restaurants and theatres located at a stone’s throw away. Street music is a regular feature here and one can listen to some great soulful singers at the square. The departmental store of El Corte Ingles and La Mallorquina Café are the two most favorite joints here.
Buildings at Puerta Del Sol
The old Post Office building has a great historical significance and is currently used for official purposes by the Madrid community. There is a statue of King Charles III of Spain on the southern end and the well-known symbol of Tio Pepe on the Square's eastern building. The statue of a bear and madrone tree lies on the northern side of the Square and the Mariblanca or statue of Venus is positioned in place of an old fountain. On the northern side of the Post Office is the kilometro cero and is considered the symbolic center of Spain. The Puerto Del Sol square forms the focal point of numbering of the Spanish road network and has also witnessed many rallies and protests in the past.
Puerto Del Sol in Madrid continues to remain as a busy square with diverse activities and is a favorite with visitors and natives alike.
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