The Cibeles Square (Plaza de Cibeles) is one of the most famous of Madrid's many squares. In the center of this square is the very famous Cibeles fountain made of marble, built in 1782. A celebration is held at this fountain whenever Real Madrid football club experiences success, with the team captain placing a trophy and a scarf on a statue of a horseman located in the middle of the fountain. It is perhaps the most famous for that.
This part of Madrid is called Paseo de Recoletos, and the fountain was named after the Phrygian goddess. The square is built in the neoclassical style and is one of the symbols of the city, often seen on postcards. The square is located at the intersection of three main streets. The former name of the square is Plaza de Madrid, then Plaza de Castelar since 1900, and Plaza de Cibeles today. There are 4 significant buildings on this square: the Bank of Spain building, the Buenavista Palace, the Linares Palace and the Cibeles Palace.
The Cibeles Palace used to be called the Palace of Communications, and today it houses the seat of the Madrid City Council. It is possible to board Hop on Hop off buses in this square and tour Madrid since it is one of the starting points.
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
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photo credit: Quique Olivar Ph
