Why Is There the Fallen Angel Statue in Madrid?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever visited Madrid and wondered about the meaning behind the striking statue of a fallen angel? This impressive sculpture can be found in the Retiro Park, one of the most popular parks in the city. In this article, we will explore why there is a fallen angel statue in Madrid and what it represents.

The History Behind The Fallen Angel Statue

The Fallen Angel Statue in Madrid was created by Ricardo Bellver, a Spanish sculptor, in 1877. The statue is officially called “El Ángel Caído,” which translates to “The Fallen Angel” in English.

The Inspiration Behind The Statue

The inspiration for this statue came from a poem by John Milton called “Paradise Lost.” This epic poem tells the story of Satan’s fall from grace and his subsequent rebellion against God. In the poem, Satan takes on the form of a serpent and deceives Adam and Eve into eating from the forbidden tree, leading to their expulsion from paradise.

Bellver was fascinated by Milton’s work and decided to create a sculpture that depicted Satan’s fall from heaven. The statue portrays Satan as a beautiful angel with majestic wings that have been ripped off his back after his fall.

The Symbolism Of The Statue

The Fallen Angel Statue carries significant symbolism, representing the struggle between good and evil. It reminds us that even angels can fall from grace and succumb to temptation.

The statue also serves as a warning against vanity and pride. Before his fall, Satan was considered one of God’s most beautiful angels but was banished from heaven due to his arrogance.

Conclusion

In summary, The Fallen Angel Statue in Madrid represents an essential theme in literature – the struggle between good and evil. It also reminds us that even beings considered perfect can make mistakes and suffer consequences for their actions.

If you ever find yourself in Madrid, make sure to visit Retiro Park and take a moment to appreciate the impressive Fallen Angel Statue.