VISIT THE PLAZA DE CIBELES

A monumental crossroads
The Plaza de Cibeles is located at the junction of the Calle de Alcalá, the Paseo de Recoletos and the Paseo del Prado. It is dominated by four monumental buildings: the Palacio de Cibeles (formerly the Palacio de Comunicaciones), the Bank of Spain, the Palacio de Buenavista and the Palacio de Linares.

Why visit?
The square is one of Madrid's most photographed landmarks. Its fountain, depicting the goddess Cibeles on a chariot drawn by lions, has become the gathering place for Real Madrid fans to celebrate their victories. The Palacio de Cibeles, transformed into a cultural centre and city hall, boasts a spectacular panoramic terrace.

A brief history and anecdotes
The fountain was installed in 1782 as part of a project to embellish the Paseo del Prado. Anecdote: the statue of the goddess is protected by an underground trapdoor that can shelter her in the event of a threat.

What can you do there?
- Admire the Cibeles fountain by day and night
- Climb up to the Cibeles Palace lookout for a panoramic view
- Discover the monumental architecture of the buildings surrounding the square
- Attend a sporting celebration if you're in Madrid when Real Madrid wins a title
- Take a stroll along the Paseo del Prado or the Gran Vía, both very close by

Where is it?
📍 Plaza de Cibeles, 28014 Madrid, Spain
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice
- Accessible by metro (Banco de España and Retiro stations)
- Best time for photos: at sunset when the fountain lights up
- Possibility of visiting the Cibeles Palace cultural centre
- Bring good shoes: the square is a crossroads for several urban walks

To discover around
- Gran Vía
- Calle de Alcalá
- Prado Museum
- Retiro Park

Audioguide
🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the Plaza de Cibeles on History Guide City Madrid !
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