Cibeles Fountain

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The fountain’s water was historically used to supply the residents of Madrid before the modernization of the city's water infrastructure.

2. 2

   The lions' names, Hippomenes and Atalanta, refer to the couple punished for their vanity by being forced to pull Cybele's chariot forever.

3. 3

   It is the traditional site for Real Madrid celebrations, where players drape the goddess in a club scarf during victory parades.

4. 4

   The statue of the goddess faces the Neptune Fountain, located further down the Paseo del Prado, representing a mythological face-off.

5. 5

   The base of the fountain is made of 'piedra de Colmenar', a hard limestone common in historical Madrid architecture.

Overview

The Cibeles Fountain is a neoclassical monument located at the center of Plaza de Cibeles, representing the Roman goddess Cybele on a chariot pulled by two lions. Designed by Ventura Rodríguez in 1782, the sculpture is carved from white marble originating from Montesclaros. It serves as the primary meeting point for Real Madrid fans celebrating team victories. The surrounding square is framed by four prominent buildings: Palacio de Cibeles, Banco de España, Palacio de Linares, and Palacio de Buenavista. The fountain underwent significant structural renovations in the early 21st century to preserve its stone integrity. The lions depicted in the work are named Hippomenes and Atalanta, based on the Greek mythological figures transformed into lions by Zeus. The central statue of the goddess was carved by Francisco Gutiérrez, while the lions were crafted by Roberto Michel.

Insider tips

• View the fountain from the rooftop terrace of the Palacio de Cibeles for a high-angle perspective of the entire square.

• Visit during the golden hour when the sun hits the white marble, highlighting the intricate carvings of the chariot and lions.

• Avoid standing directly on the road surrounding the fountain, as traffic flows continuously around the roundabout.