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The statues of Madrid and its history

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THE STATUES OF MADRID AND ITS HISTORY

Explore the symbolism of El Oso and El Madroño

The image of El Bear and El Strawberry is known as the heraldic symbol of Madrid. This famous statue is located in the Puerta del Sol and is the work of the sculptor Antonio Navarro Santafé. It features the city crest and is a popular place for both locals and tourists looking to take a photo with the Madrid icon. The bear symbolizes strength and perseverance, while the strawberry tree is a local fruit tree that represents fecundity and the abundance of Madrid. Together, they embody the bonds between the town and its natural environment, a strong bond that has lasted throughout the centuries. In addition to its symbolic meaning, the statue is also a regular meeting point and an icon of Madrid identity.

Lesser-known statues and their secrets

Apart from the famous statues, Madrid hides secrets in lesser known statues that surprise those who discover them. For example, the street sweeper in Benavente Plaza: A tribute to the city's cleaning workers, or "El Vecino curiouso" in the Calle Mayor, very near the Almudena Cathedral: a figure that seems to overlook a balcony, representing neighborhood life and a curiosity about everyday life. The works contribute to an urban narrative that complements its historical wealth with accounts of daily life in Madrid. The search for these statues becomes an adventure for lovers of art and history, revealing a facet of Madrid that is often overlooked.

Works by Botero and Chillida in the streets of Madrid

The streets of Madrid are also a canvas for internationally famous artists. Fernando Botero, famous for his bulky figures, and Eduardo Chillida, famous for his abstract sculpture, both have works that can be seen in public spaces in the city. Botero's "Woman with a mirror" can be seen in Terminal 4 at the Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, and several sculptures by Chillida can be admired in different parts of the city, including the Castellana Park. These works not only enrich the sculptural heritage of Madrid, but also connect the city with global artistic trends.

"Julia", a tribute to female education in Madrid

At the Complutense University of Madrid "Julia" is a statue of a post-war university student. This work is a tribute to female education and the fight for equal opportunities for women in Spain. The figure of "Julia" sitting on a university bench symbolizes both the inclusion of women in education and the social progress achieved in recent decades. The presence of the statue among students reflects the continued commitment to gender equality and the importance of education in the evolution of society.

Discover other statues in Madrid and its history

Here are some of the most iconic statues in the city and a bit about its history: Monument to Alfonso XII, Cibeles Fuente and the Neptuno Fountain, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza statues... These and many more make up the collection of Madrid statues, an artistic and cultural mosaic that tells the history of the city in a unique and charming way. Each of them is a window on different chapters in Madrid’s history and an invitation to explore in an original way the secrets and legends that every corner of the city hides.

What is the story behind the Fallen Angel?

One of the most intriguing statues in Madrid is that of the Fallen Angel in the Retiro Park. Many are surprised to discover that it represents the fall of Lucfer, a rare theme in public art. This work by Ricardo Bellver was created in 1877 and is unique due to its symbolism and the quality of its work. Legend has it that the statue is 666 meters above sea level, fueling myths about its connection with the diabolic. Despite the legends, this work is admired for its expressiveness and perfect form and makes it a must-see on any art tour of Madrid. Close to the statue, the ambience in the Retiro Park invites you to reflect on good and bad while also enjoying one of the most iconic green spaces in the city.

Route through the most iconic sculptures in Madrid

Madrid offers a cultural itinerary that allows visitors and locals to discover some of the most iconic sculptures in Madrid. Each of these statues is not only stunning for the eyes, but also a journey through the history and culture of Madrid. An art tour of Madrid that offers a chance to appreciate art at its best in the context of everyday life in the city. The route may include: