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Discover El Oso y el Madroño
El Oso y el Madroño is one of Madrid's most iconic monuments. Located in the famous Puerta del Sol, this symbol represents the city's coat of arms and is a must-visit meeting point for locals and tourists alike.
Visit Tips
- The monument is accessible 24 hours a day and is free.
- It is the most famous meeting point in Madrid.
- Perfect for a memorable photo in the city center.
Highlights
- Symbol of the city
- Located in Puerta del Sol
- 24-hour access
- Free admission
About El Oso y el Madroño
Basic Information
Official Name
El Oso y el Madroño
Attraction Type
Monumental Sculpture
Google Rating
4.6 (8,361)
Plus Code
C78W+RW Madrid, Spain
Address
Puerta del Sol, 1, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain
Visiting Hours
Site Access
Open 24 hours (public space)
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Pleasant temperatures, ideal for walking
Summer: Pleasant evenings at Puerta del Sol
Best Time to Visit
Autumn: Perfect weather for exploring the city
Winter: Festive Christmas atmosphere at Puerta del Sol
The monument is accessible at any time of day or night.
Admission Information
Monument Visit
Free admission
Parking
Paid parking available nearby
Guided Tours
Self-guided (public space)
How to Get Here
From Madrid City Center
The monument is located in Puerta del Sol, in the heart of Madrid.
From Airport
From Madrid-Barajas Airport, take the metro or a taxi to the center.
From Train Station
Accessible by metro from major train stations.
Public Transport
Excellent connections via metro (Sol), bus, and commuter trains.
Walking
Accessible on foot from multiple points in central Madrid.
Driving
Accessible by car, though public transport is recommended due to traffic restrictions.
About El Oso y el Madroño
Historical Background
El Oso y el Madroño is a bronze sculpture created by artist Antonio Navarro Santafé in 1967. It represents the coat of arms of Madrid, showing a bear feeding on the fruits of a strawberry tree (madroño). The current statue is the third version, installed in its current location in 2009.
Symbolism
The bear and the strawberry tree are the central elements of Madrid's coat of arms. The bear represents the abundance of wildlife in the forests that surrounded the original city, while the strawberry tree (madroño) is a common species in the Community of Madrid region.
Location
The sculpture is situated in Puerta del Sol, specifically next to the General Directorate of Police building. It is one of the most popular meeting points in Madrid and a must-stop for tourists.
Cultural Significance
El Oso y el Madroño is much more than a sculpture; it is a symbol of identity for Madrid's residents. It appears on the official coat of arms of the city and is mentioned in various literary and cultural works related to Madrid.
Visiting Information
The sculpture can be visited at any time, as it is located in an outdoor public space. Puerta del Sol is accessible 24 hours a day and is well connected by public transportation.
Recommended Route
A walk through the historic center of Madrid.
Start at Puerta del Sol, in front of El Oso y el Madroño
Admire the sculpture and take a memorable photo
Explore Puerta del Sol and its surroundings
Walk to Plaza Mayor (5 minutes on foot)
Enjoy the historic architecture and Madrid atmosphere
Top Photo Spots
El Oso y el Madroño
The main sculpture offers the perfect opportunity for an iconic photo with Madrid's symbol.
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Puerta del Sol
The famous square offers an excellent backdrop for urban and architectural photography.
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Puerta del Sol Clock
The famous clock where madrileños celebrate New Year, perfect for travel photos.
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City Center Views
The streets around Puerta del Sol offer stunning urban views ideal for Instagram.
Photo Gallery
Views of El Oso y el Madroño
El Oso y el Madroño
Puerta del Sol
Front view
Sculpture detail
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The strawberry tree
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The bear
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Coat of arms of Madrid
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Near the statue
Visitor Reviews
Visitor feedback can be viewed via Google Maps.
An iconic symbol of Madrid. Whenever I visit Puerta del Sol, I have to take a photo with the bear and the strawberry tree. It's a classic.
Impossible to visit Madrid and not pass by El Oso y el Madroño. It's the meeting point par excellence and a mandatory photo.
A very representative monument. It is well preserved and easily accessible in Puerta del Sol. Highly recommendable.
As a madrileña, El Oso y el Madroño is part of my identity. I always meet friends next to the statue, it's our reference point.
A place full of history and symbolism. The sculpture is beautiful and perfectly represents the spirit of Madrid.
Visiting Madrid without seeing El Oso y el Madroño is like not having gone. It's a symbol beloved by all madrileños and visitors.