El Oso y el Madroño

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The bear and strawberry tree symbol has represented Madrid on its coat of arms since the Middle Ages.

2. 2

   The statue is located near 'Kilometer Zero,' the reference point for all radial roads in Spain.

3. 3

   The strawberry tree (Madroño) featured in the statue is native to the Mediterranean region.

4. 4

   The sculpture was commissioned by the Madrid City Council in the 1960s to represent the city's heritage.

5. 5

   The bear was historically used in Madrid's heraldry to represent the abundance of game in the surrounding forests.

Overview

El Oso y el Madroño is a bronze statue serving as the official symbol of Madrid. It depicts a bear reaching for the fruit of a strawberry tree, an emblem dating back to the 13th century. Created by sculptor Antonio Navarro Santafé, the statue was inaugurated in 1967. It weighs approximately 20 tons and stands about 4 meters tall. The monument is situated in the Puerta del Sol, which serves as the kilometer zero point for Spain's radial road network. The combination of the bear and the strawberry tree appears on the official flag and coat of arms of the city. The statue is a frequent meeting point for locals and a central focal point for public gatherings. It is constructed from stone and bronze.

Insider tips

• Visit during early morning hours to avoid the large crowds that congregate around the statue throughout the day.

• Look down at the pavement near the statue to find the plaque marking Kilometer Zero.

• Be aware that this is a high-traffic area, so keep a close watch on personal belongings.