All roads lead to Puerta del Sol, literally. Known as "kilometer zero" because the distances of Spain's highways are measured radiating out from here, Sol serves not only as the heart of Madrid, but of the entire country as well.
The plaza's name originates from the eastern city gate located here in the 15th century.
The gate was probably called after a sun drawn on it, hence the name Puerta del Sol or 'Sun Gate'.
The current semi-oval square was created in the 19th century.
