As one of the most emblematic and iconic squares in Madrid, the Plaza de Cibeles has become as much a symbol of the city as the Puerta del Sol or the Plaza Mayor. The neoclassical plaza in the center of Madrid is many things: a major traffic hub, home to a handful of spectacular buildings, even the unofficial venue for Spanish soccer’s victory celebrations, but it also boasts a rich history and heritage. cultural. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
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The history of Plaza de Cibeles dates back to 1777, when the first of its magnificent buildings, the Palacio de Buenavista, was built. A few years later, in 1782, there was also the current centerpiece of the square, the Fuente de Cibeles; However, it was originally located outside the Prado Museum and was not moved to the square until 1895.
Throughout the following century, the rest of the buildings that decorate the Plaza de Cibeles arose around the plaza. The Bank of Spain was completed in 1891, the Palacio de Linares in 1900, and finally the crown jewel of the square, the Palacio de Cibeles, in 1919.
How to get there
The location of Plaza de Cibeles in the heart of Madrid, at the crossroads of several key neighborhoods and streets, could not be more ideal. Located right at the crossroads of Calle Alcalá, the northwest corner of Parque del Retiro and Paseo del Prado, it is easily accessible from almost anywhere in the city center.
Madrid is an easily walkable city, and reaching Plaza de Cibeles on foot from most of the other major tourist sites in the Spanish capital is not too difficult. However, if you prefer to take public transport, hop on metro line 2 and get off at the Banco de España station. Bus lines 1, 2, 9, 10, 15, 20, 34, 51, 52, 53, 74, 146, 202 and 203 also serve Plaza de Cibeles.
What to see in the Plaza de Cibeles
Each of the four main buildings that surround the Plaza de Cibeles, as well as the fountain of the same name, claims its own unique history and is part of the rich history of Madrid.
Buenavista Palace: As the oldest building in Plaza de Cibeles, the Buenavista Palace has noble roots: it originally served as the home for the Duke and Duchess of Alba. Today it serves as the headquarters of the Spanish army. Free guided tours are available, and you can also see the fascinating Changing of the Guard here on the last Friday of most months.
Cibeles Fountain: The fountain that gave the square its name represents Cibeles ( Cibeles in Spanish), the Greek goddess of fertility and nature, sitting on a chariot drawn by lions. The sculpture’s sense of power and strength have made it a favorite of the Real Madrid soccer team, as well as the Spanish national club, who gather at the fountain with fans to celebrate victories.
Banco de España: The Banco de España building is the only structure in Plaza de Cibeles that still serves its original purpose. The exterior facade is impressive, but inside, the building houses several artistic masterpieces by artists such as Goya and other icons.
Palacio de Linares: Located in the northeast corner of the plaza, the Palacio de Linares was the home of the noble Linares family in the early 20th century. Over the years, it was restored and eventually reopened as the Casa de América, a cultural center that promotes the art, history, and heritage of Latin America through exhibitions, film screenings, panel discussions, and more.
Palacio de Cibeles – After its construction in 1919, Plaza de Cibeles’ most impressive masterpiece served as the Palacio de Comunicaciones , or the headquarters of the national postal service (which is arguably the most beautiful post office that the world has ever seen). In 2007, it became the Madrid city hall. There is a rooftop terrace at the top of the building that offers great drinks, food, and views of Madrid city center.
What to do nearby
As you can imagine given its fabulous location, there is a lot to see and do around Plaza de Cibeles. Head west and you’ll eventually reach Gran Vía, Madrid’s most legendary avenue, which also gives you easy access to Puerta del Sol.
Directly south of the square are two of the three emblematic museums that make up Madrid’s Golden Triangle: the Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. The most famous green space in the city, the Retiro Park, is located to the east of the square.
Finally, as you head north, you will find yourself in the elegant Salamanca district, home to some of the best shopping in Madrid.
