Puerta del Sol(Sun Gate)

Puerta del Sol is the central square of Madrid, surrounded by many historic buildings. The square was once the place where Napoleon's army invaded Madrid and confronted the citizens. Now it is a place for major parades and gatherings and leisure and entertainment for citizens and tourists. No matter day or night, it is always crowded and full of vitality. Plaza Building The Puerta del Sol square is semicircular, surrounded by houses and buildings, many of which can be called the essence of Madrid's urban architecture. On the south side of Puerta del Sol stands the iconic old postal building (LaCasadeCorreos), an old red and white building in the square that resembles a majestic palace. The bell tower in the middle of the building is very famous. Every New Year's Eve, Madrid people will gather here to celebrate the arrival of the new year by eating 12 grapes symbolizing good luck when the clock strikes 12 midnight. There is a sign on the pedestrian walkway in front of the "zero point sign" postal building, which is marked "zero point" (Kilómetro Cero). All road milestones in Spain are calculated from here, and the house number of the city of Madrid is also here. for the starting point. "Bear and Raspberry Statue" The symbol of Madrid City The "Bear and Raspberry" statue (Estatua del Osoyel Madroño) is located in the east of Puerta del Sol. This statue replaces the previous ruins of Puerta del Sol, and is now a very popular landmark in Madrid. The little bear stood upright, holding the raspberry tree in front of his front paws, lifelike. Now it is also a meeting place for many locals. Statue of Carlos III In the center of the Puerta del Sol Square stands the equestrian statue of Carlos III (EstatuaecuestredeCarlosIII). Next to the statue is a large fountain surrounded by flowers and steps for visitors to rest. In addition, the building itself of the Puerta del Sol (Sol) station on the square is also a highlight. The arched glass building shines in the sun, and the avant-garde shape like a shell is quite eye-catching among the traditional and classical buildings in the square. . Square Activities You can watch and take pictures at will in the square, or you can sit by the fountain, feed the pigeons, and enjoy the wonderful street performers. Puerta del Sol is also a commercial area. You can find flagship stores around Topshop, Sephora, Springfield, and Real Madrid. You can also see the building of the wine cellar TioPepe. The Ingles department store is also close at hand. To the Grand Avenue, to the west is the Callao business district, which is definitely a good place for shopping. In addition, there are many bars and cafes in the alley on the south side of the square, which are very local in Madrid, and the prices are very close to the people. You might as well try the feeling of beer with tapa (Madrid snacks). Puerta del Sol Square is also very lively at night with beautiful scenery at midnight. At the beginning of the lanterns, people are surging. At this time, Puerta del Sol Square may better interpret the essence of Madrid nightlife. Street teenagers dancing in the square, sentimental saxophone players, whispering couples...all are a beautiful scenery. If you happen to come here at midnight, facing the still crowded crowd in the square, and the cheers one after another, please don't be surprised, this city is saying to you in a unique way: Welcome to Puerta del Sol, welcome to Puerta del Sol. Come to sleepless Madrid!