Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree travel guide

El Oso y el Madroño (The Bear and the Strawberry Tree) is one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks, symbolizing the city’s rich history and heritage. The statue, located in the bustling Puerta del Sol square, was created by sculptor Antonio Navarro Santafé and unveiled in 1967.

The bear and the strawberry tree have been associated with Madrid since the Middle Ages, appearing on the city's coat of arms. Historically, the bear represents the abundance of wildlife in the surrounding forests, while the madroño, or strawberry tree, signifies the region’s lush flora.

Over the centuries, the emblem has evolved, reflecting Madrid’s growth from a small settlement to a major European capital. The statue itself is made of stone and bronze, standing at an impressive four meters tall and weighing around 20 tons.

El Oso y el Madroño continues to be a beloved symbol of Madrid, representing the city's resilience and connection to nature. Tourists and locals alike flock to Puerta del Sol to admire the statue and capture a quintessential Madrid moment.

El Oso y el Madroño is a striking statue that stands out not only for its symbolic significance but also for its unique artistic features. Crafted from stone and bronze, the statue captures the iconic bear and strawberry tree with meticulous detail, showcasing the artistic prowess of its creator, Antonio Navarro Santafé. The bear is depicted in a dynamic pose, rearing up on its hind legs to reach the fruit of the madroño tree, emphasizing the natural interaction between the two elements.

Another distinctive characteristic is its strategic location at Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s most bustling and central squares. This positioning makes it a focal point for both locals and tourists, serving as a popular meeting spot and a recognizable symbol of the city. The statue's base, made of granite, adds to its enduring presence, blending seamlessly with the urban landscape while standing out through its distinctive design.

Moreover, the statue's dimensions—standing at 4 meters tall and weighing approximately 20 tons—make it an imposing and impressive sight. These unique features collectively contribute to the statue's status as an emblematic and beloved landmark in Madrid.

El Oso y el Madroño stands at 20 tons and 4 meters high, making it an impressive landmark that catches the eye immediately. While many are aware it's a symbol of Madrid, few know it's cast in bronze and rests on a granite pedestal. Interestingly, the bear was not always climbing a strawberry tree; earlier versions depicted it standing beside the tree. The change was made to better align with the city's evolving identity. The statue was installed in 1967, but the origin of the bear and tree symbol dates back to the 13th century. Another fun fact: the statue's location at Puerta del Sol makes it a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists, often serving as the backdrop for countless selfies and photographs.

Discover Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a prime feature of Madrid, in the vibrant Sol. Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree is situated at Prta del Sol, 1, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain, just a short distance from Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Madrid, a city in Spain rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Madrid to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Madrid travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore El Oso y el Madroño, one of Madrid's most iconic landmarks, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for strolling around the city's vibrant streets and admiring the statue without the discomfort of extreme heat or cold.

Springtime brings blooming flowers and lush greenery to Madrid, enhancing the beauty of the area around El Oso y el Madroño. Additionally, the city's various spring festivals, such as the San Isidro Festival in May, add a lively atmosphere and unique cultural experiences for visitors.

In the fall, the weather remains comfortable, and the summer tourist crowds have typically thinned out, allowing for a more relaxed visit. This season also coincides with Madrid's gastronomy festivals, offering a chance to savor local cuisine and enjoy the cultural richness of the city.

While summer and winter have their own charm, the best time to explore El Oso y el Madroño is undeniably during the spring and fall, when the weather is ideal, and the city is brimming with cultural activities without the overwhelming crowds.

Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Madrid, Spain. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to Madrid, Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is approximately 8.9 miles (14.3 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree by taxi or shuttle.

Its exact address is Prta del Sol, 1, Centro, 28013 Madrid, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Madrid, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in Spain.

Upon arriving at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Madrid.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Madrid.

Choosing the right accommodation near Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Madrid can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, Madrid boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Madrid offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Madrid is El Retiro Park, located at Retiro, 28009 Madrid, Spain. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Plaza Mayor is worth seeing when you're in Madrid. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Pl. Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid, Spain.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium completes any trip to Madrid. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Av. De Concha Espina, 1, Chamartín, 28036 Madrid, Spain, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Madrid below to discover even more incredible places to explore.