THE BEAR AND THE STRAWBERRY TREE – MADRID’S MOST BELOVED MONUMENT

Vibrant Madrid, the capital of Spain, is world-famous for its magnificent Royal Palace (Palacio Real) — one of the largest in Europe — as well as for the football club Real Madrid and the monumental Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

PHOTO: Putni kufer

However, beyond royal splendor and sports glory, Madrid also hides a charming and mysterious symbol that fascinates both locals and tourists alike — the statue of the bear and the strawberry tree (El Oso y el Madroño). 

Located in the heart of the city, at the famous Puerta del Sol square, this monument has become one of Madrid’s most photographed attractions. Every day, thousands of visitors stop to take a picture with it, touching the bear’s paw or tail for good luck — though few know the true story behind it.

The origins of the bear and the strawberry tree go back to medieval times. When Madrid was founded, bears roamed the nearby mountains, often wandering close to the settlement and evoking both fear and respect among the inhabitants.

In the year 1222, a dispute between the Church and the city authorities over surrounding lands was finally resolved by dividing the territory — the Church received the pastures and plains, while the city was granted the forests. The king sealed this agreement with a document featuring a bear symbolizing the Church’s lands and a strawberry tree representing the city’s part.

Not long after, both symbols appeared on Madrid’s coat of arms, and over time, they became enduring emblems of the city’s identity. Today, the statue of El Oso y el Madroño stands proudly as a reminder of Madrid’s rich history — a blend of legend, nature, and urban heritage that continues to enchant everyone who visits.