Moved to the middle
The fountain first stood at the side of the road, facing the Palacio de Buenavista. In 1895 it was moved to the centre of the crossroads, which made the roundabout you see.
Urban Tales › Madrid › Plaza de Cibeles
Plaza de Cibeles: the goddess and her lions
In the middle of one of Madrid's busiest crossroads, the goddess Cybele rides a chariot pulled by two lions. The fountain was carved in 1782 and moved to this spot in 1895.
Fountain1782
Designed byVentura Rodríguez
Moved here1895
City HallPalacio de Cibeles, since 2007
Hear the Plaza de Cibeles story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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2
Four palaces
The square is ringed by the Palacio de Buenavista (army headquarters), the Banco de España, the Palacio de Linares (Casa de América) and the Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid's City Hall since 2007.
3
Real Madrid's fountain
When Real Madrid wins a big title, players and fans celebrate here, and a player traditionally drapes a scarf and flag on the goddess.
TipGo up to the viewpoint at the top of the Palacio de Cibeles for a view over the fountain and the Gran Vía. With Urban Tales running, its story plays as you reach the square.
Nearby landmarks
Plaza de Cibeles: common questions
Who is the goddess in the Plaza de Cibeles?
Cybele, a goddess of nature and fertility, on a chariot pulled by two lions.
Why do Real Madrid fans celebrate at Cibeles?
It became their celebration spot; Atlético Madrid fans celebrate at the nearby Neptune fountain.
What building is the Palacio de Cibeles?
Originally Madrid's main post office (1919), and Madrid's City Hall since 2007.