This is the transport hub of Madrid, and makes for an excellent central rendezvous.
The Puerta del Sol originated as one of the gates in the city wall that encircled medieval Madrid: it got its name from the rising sun which decorated the entrance, as the gate was oriented to the east.
Today a busy and vibrant spot at the centre of the city, Puerta del Sol offers a fine range of shops, restaurants and cafés down its side streets, an array of entertainments in the square (the typical street-performer cast of mimes, human statues and magicians vie for tourists' attention) and great opportunities for people-watching throughout.
In front of the Post Office, which serves as the office of the President of Madrid, is a plaque in the pavement marking the starting point of all the roads in Spain: they all radiate out from here like the rays of the sun. Its central and symbolic location has made the square a popular spot for protest and demonstrations in recent years.
The square is also home to a famous clock, whose bells sound for the Spanish tradition of the eating of the Twelve Grapes and the beginning of a new year. The New Year's celebrations held in the square has been broadcast live on national TV since 1962. On the east side stands a statue of a bear and a madrone tree (madroño), the heraldic symbol of Madrid; another landmark is the huge neon-lit advertisement for Tío Pepe, a brand of sherry, which has dominated the square since 1936.
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