Plaza de Cibeles

Overview

One of Madrid's most spectacular intersections, the Plaza de Cibeles is defined by an 18th-century fountain of the Phrygian goddess Cybele riding a chariot pulled by two lions, surrounded by four of the city's most monumental buildings.

Highlights

• Cibeles Fountain: Sculpted by Francisco Gutiérrez and Roberto Michel in 1782, originally serving as a water supply fountain, now the shrine where Real Madrid fans celebrate major trophies.
• Palacio de Comunicaciones: The former post office (now city hall), an extraordinary white wedding-cake building from 1917 that defines the square's skyline.
• Banco de España: The imposing 1891 headquarters of Spain's central bank, guarding the nation's gold reserves in vaults beneath the street.

History

The fountain was commissioned by Charles III as part of his massive urban beautification programme that transformed Madrid from a provincial Castilian town into a monumental European capital. During the Spanish Civil War (1936–39), the fountain was sandbagged to protect it from bombing.

Visitor Tips

• Night Illumination: Visit after dark when the fountain and surrounding palaces are spectacularly illuminated.
• Perspective: Stand at the top of Calle de Alcalá for the most striking view of the fountain framed by the two flanking palaces.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.