Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a city filled with history and culture. One of the most recognizable symbols of Madrid is the bear and the strawberry tree that can be seen on the city’s coat of arms.
But why does Madrid have a bear as its symbol? Let’s explore the history behind this emblematic figure.
The Legend
Legend has it that in the 13th century, King Alfonso VIII was out hunting in the mountains near Madrid when he came across a bear. The bear was eating from a strawberry tree, which inspired Alfonso to name the area “El Pardo,” which means “the brown one” in Spanish.
The Coat of Arms
Fast forward to 1222 when Madrid was officially founded. The city needed a coat of arms to represent its identity and values. It was then that the image of a bear standing next to a strawberry tree was chosen as Madrid’s symbol.
The Meaning
The bear and strawberry tree have different interpretations depending on who you ask. Some say it represents strength and resilience, while others believe it symbolizes harmony between nature and civilization.
The Sculpture
In 1967, artist Antonio Navarro Santafé created a bronze sculpture of the bear and strawberry tree that sits in Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s busiest squares. The sculpture quickly became one of the most popular meeting points for locals and tourists alike.
In Conclusion
Madrid’s bear and strawberry tree are more than just symbols on a coat of arms or a sculpture in a square. They represent Madrid’s past, present, and future – from its origins as a hunting ground to its bustling modern-day metropolis. So next time you’re in Madrid, keep an eye out for this iconic emblem – you never know what cultural treasures await!
- Legend: The story behind the bear and strawberry tree.
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The Coat of Arms:
How the symbol was chosen for Madrid.
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The Meaning:
Different interpretations of the emblem’s significance.
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The Sculpture:
The famous bronze sculpture in Puerta del Sol.