Sun Gate

Puerta del Sol, or "Heaven's Gate", is the beating heart of Madrid. This landmark was once the furthest east of the city and was the site of a medieval gate decorated with a sunrise image from which its name is derived. Today, it is the city's main public square, hosting everything from political demonstrations to New Year's Eve celebrations.

Stroll the squares and admire the grand old buildings, see the iconic statues and discover the life of the people of Madrid. In the center is a statue of King Carlos III, who ordered the construction of many of the city's infrastructure and public works projects.

Look at the Casa de Correos. The red and beige building was built in the 1760s and served as the city's post office for decades. Later, the Ministry of the Interior and the police headquarters under Franco were located in this building. Today, the Presidential Council of the Community of Madrid is housed in this building.

Look up at the clock tower that all Spaniards count down to on New Year's Eve. The local tradition is to eat one grape every 12 bells at midnight. Find the Kilometer Cero sign in front of the tower; This sign marks the center of the six national highways of Spain.

On the east side of the square is Madrid's most famous statue, the Bear and the Madroño Tree . The statue is the symbol of the city and is present on everything from badges to taxi doors. Pass by the Mariblanca replica, the statue marking the site of a fountain once.

Puerta del Sol is surrounded by bustling streets crammed with shops, bars and restaurants. Pick a direction and start exploring. The square is the heart of the city and a place where locals and visitors alike stop to refresh their spirits and plan a new day.