Image HIDDEN TREASURES IN THE STREETS OF MADRID: UNVEILING THE NEW STONEWORK BRANDS

HIDDEN TREASURES IN THE STREETS OF MADRID: UNVEILING THE NEW STONEWORK BRANDS
2024/04/25

Have you ever stopped to look at the details on the ground while walking through the streets of Madrid? Although for many they are just tiles and slabs, to the most attentive eyes they reveal a hidden and fascinating history that is emerging thanks to municipal architects.

In the city's latest renovations, municipal architects have incorporated new stonework marks that pay tribute to Madrid's rich history . From solar symbols to references to disappeared businesses, these architectural marks are a nod to the city's identity and memory.

Centuries ago, the stonemasons of the Sierra de Madrid left their mark on the region's buildings with symbolic marks on the stone blocks. This tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages, has been revived in the city's recent renovations, with a renewed and significant focus.

One of the most striking examples is Puerta del Sol, where a granite slab with the sun chiseled into it welcomes passers-by entering from Alcalá Street. In other parts of the city, such as Amaniel Street or Plaza de la Cebada, the new stonework marks have been subtly integrated into the urban landscape, recalling historic businesses and emblematic places.

"These marks refer to the memory of these places, to businesses that have disappeared or to existing emblematic buildings of special heritage value in the history of the city," the City Council explains.

The renovations of Alcalá, Gran Vía and Carretas streets have been the scene of some of these additions, with references to the Café y Botillería de Pombo , the arrows of the statue of Diana the Huntress and the dialogue between iconic sculptures.

In addition to the streets, some new stone benches also hide bas-reliefs, such as the cat stretching out in front of number 16 Augusto Figueroa Street.

These architectural details, although discreet, are a window to Madrid's past, reminding us of the rich history that lies beneath our feet. In an effort to preserve and celebrate the city's identity, municipal architects continue to leave their mark on the urban landscape, keeping history alive for future generations.

These are the twelve marks of stonework:

  • Jesús del Pozo Scissors on Almirante Street
  • Comedy and tragedy and the cat standing in front of the María Guerrero theater
  • Cross of Santiago next to Commanders
  • Alcalá street sun
  • Cross of Calatrava in Alcalá
  • Bronze letters imitating the Café del Pombo sign
  • Tile with film camera in front of the National Film Archive
  • Barley bouquet in the square of the same name
  • Remembering the centenary of the Teatro de la Latina
  • Diana's Arrows on Gran Vía
  • Bas-relief of a cat in Augusto Figueroa
  • Remembrance of the Galapagos Fountain in Hortaleza

Here we leave you a route of the stonework brands that exist in Madrid.