Plaza de Cibeles square

This is one of the liveliest, best-known and most beautiful squares in Madrid, and is home to such emblematic monuments as the Cibeles Fountain and Palace. This is a visit not to be missed on any trip to the city.

The Cibeles fountain, the symbol of Madrid, stands in the middle of the square. Goddess of nature and protector of the town, this sculpture was designed by Ventura Rodríguez in 1782. An interesting fact is that the Real Madrid football fans gather around this monument to celebrate their club's major victories.Also in this square is the Cibeles Palace (today the site of the City Hall) which also houses the cultural space known as CentroCentro (with an exhibition hall and auditorium, and a viewing platform offering outstanding panoramic views over Madrid); and the Glass Gallery, a space which is available to all (designed as an events venue) and featuring a spectacular glass vault. Other famous buildings such as the Bank of Spain, the Linares Palace and the Buenavista Palace also stand in this square. This is the start of the well-known avenue of Paseo del Prado.