Landmark
El Oso y el Madroño
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El Oso y el Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree) is one of Madrid’s most beloved landmarks, located in the heart of the city at Puerta del Sol. The bronze statue depicts a bear reaching up to eat fruit from a madroño tree, a scene that has been the emblem of Madrid since the Middle Ages. The current statue, installed in 1967, stands about 4 meters tall on a stone pedestal. It’s a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, often surrounded by people taking photos or waiting for friends. The statue’s location in the bustling Puerta del Sol plaza makes it a natural starting point for exploring Madrid’s historic center. The bear’s friendly pose and the tree’s bright red berries (painted seasonally) make it an instantly recognizable symbol of the city. Visitors often rub the bear’s paw for good luck, giving it a shiny patina.
Don't miss
- Snap a photo with Madrid’s iconic symbol
- Rub the bear’s paw for good luck (a local tradition)
- Visit Puerta del Sol, the zero-kilometer point of Spain’s roads
- See the statue lit up at night
- Use it as a meeting point before exploring central Madrid
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit El Oso y el Madroño
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine El Oso y el Madroño with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inMadrid Oscuro: Torture, Ghosts, Crimes and Legends5★ · 1,398 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →
Most bookedMadrid Tapas & Wine Tasting Food Tour – Small Group Local Bars4.9★ · 4,409 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$89 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleMadrid Royal Palace and Prado Museum Private Tour with Transfers4.9★ · 192 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$343 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- Best photos are from the front; the bear’s face is most photogenic.
- The area is very crowded, especially on weekends, visit early for a clear shot.
- The statue marks the center of Madrid; use it as a starting point for walking tours.
- Watch your belongings; Puerta del Sol is a busy tourist area with pickpockets.
A bit of history
The bear and strawberry tree motif dates back to the 13th century as the emblem of Madrid. The current statue was created by sculptor Antonio Navarro Santafé and inaugurated in 1967. It replaced an earlier fountain with the same theme.
Common questions
Is El Oso y el Madroño free to see?
Yes, it’s a public statue in a plaza with no entry fee.
What does the statue symbolize?
It represents the coat of arms of Madrid, which features a bear reaching for fruit from a strawberry tree.
Where is the statue located?
In Puerta del Sol, the central square of Madrid.
Can I touch the statue?
Yes, it’s a common tradition to rub the bear’s paw for good luck.
What is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and nice lighting.
How old is the statue?
It was installed in 1967, but the symbol dates back centuries.
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