Visiting the Bear and Strawberry Tree
The Bear and Strawberry Tree, or statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, is a sculpture located in the heart of Madrid, right on the famous Puerta del Sol. Designed by Antonio Navarro Santafé, it depicts the two primary symbols of the Spanish capital. These figures also appear on the city flag and coat of arms. Since its inauguration in 1967, the Bear and Strawberry Tree statue has stood four meters tall and weighs a total of 20 tons.
The history of Madrid's symbols
The symbols of the bear and the strawberry tree have appeared on the coat of arms of Madrid since the 12th century. Legend suggests the region was once home to many bears, and the city was even called Ursa, the Latin word for bear. Furthermore, the bear figure is said to honor Alfonso XI, king of Castile and León, who emerged victorious from a battle against a bear.
As for the strawberry tree, it dates back to a territorial split between the civil and religious authorities of Madrid. This agreement supposedly granted the pastures to the church and gave the forests to the exclusive management of the city council.
The Bear and Strawberry Tree statue
The statue was constructed from bronze and stone during the 20th century. It depicts a bear standing on its hind legs and leaning against a strawberry tree to reach for its fruit. The sculpture rests on an imposing granite block that serves as a pedestal.
The Bear and Strawberry Tree statue has always been located on the main square of Madrid, the Puerta del Sol. It has been moved three times to different spots around the square since its installation in 1967.
The story goes that the Madrid countryside was crawling with bears a few centuries ago, hence this "homage." If you find yourself at Puerta del Sol, stop by to snap a quick photo.