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Natural attractions #15 in Getafe

Cerro de los Ángeles

4.6 · 1,161 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Cerro de los Ángeles, 28909, Madrid, Spain
Interesting facts
1

A stone marker at the site commemorates the precise geographical center of the Iberian Peninsula.

2

The original Sacred Heart monument was executed by architect Carlos Coullaut-Valera and unveiled by King Alfonso XIII.

3

During the Spanish Civil War, the original monument was destroyed; the current statue is a recreation built in the 1960s.

4

The site hosts a convent of the Discalced Carmelites, situated within the perimeter of the religious complex.

5

The hill reaches an elevation of approximately 666 meters above sea level.

6

The site serves as the focal point for the annual pilgrimage of the Virgin of the Angels, the patron saint of Getafe.

Overview

Cerro de los Ángeles is traditionally considered the geographical center of the Iberian Peninsula, marked by a small monument at the summit. The site is dominated by the Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which was inaugurated in 1919 and later rebuilt following significant damage during the Spanish Civil War. The hill features a large parkland area surrounding the religious complex, providing expansive views of the southern Madrid metropolitan area. Visitors can explore the Hermitage of Our Lady of the Angels, which houses the patron saint of Getafe. The site functions as a pilgrimage destination and a recreational space for locals. The hilltop complex includes various paths, landscaped gardens, and historical stone markers signifying its centermost status. It serves as both a Catholic devotional site and a public natural space for walking.

Photo spot

The base of the Sacred Heart monument provides the best framing for panoramic shots of the Madrid horizon.

Insider tips

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the paths around the hill involve gravel and mild inclines.

Carry water during the summer months, as shade in the open park areas can be limited.

Visit the small chapel interior if you are interested in local religious iconography and history.

What to avoid

Do not mistake the modern satellite towers on the ridge for historical monuments.

Good to know

The religious areas may be restricted during private services or during specific feast days in May.

Etiquette

Dress modestly as this is an active religious site; maintain a quiet demeanor near the chapel and monument.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and sunset views over the Madrid skyline.
Address
Cerro de los Ángeles, 28909, Madrid, Spain
40.309, -3.684
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleNeo-Romanesque and Eclectic
Key featuresSacred Heart monument and hilltop parkland

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and sunset views over the Madrid skyline..

The base of the Sacred Heart monument provides the best framing for panoramic shots of the Madrid horizon.

Close by you'll find Basílica del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, Chapel of Our Lady of the Angels, Coliseum Stadium.