1. Checkpoint 1: Puerta del Sol - Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree (Oso y Madroño)

• Clue: Head to the heart of Madrid, where you’ll find the city’s symbol. It’s a bear standing on its hind legs, reaching for the fruit of a tree. Locate this statue and take a selfie with Madrid’s iconic emblem!

Now find:

a. Chocolatería San Ginés

• Find a famous spot known for its chocolate con churros that’s been serving locals and tourists since 1894. Don’t forget to snap a picture!

b. Next Stop: La Mallorquina

• Then, head to a bakery where you can grab a Napolitana, a delicious pastry filled with chocolate or custard. This shop has been a sweet tooth’s dream since 1894. Can you find it? Take a pic of a Napolitana.

2. Checkpoint 2: Tío Pepe Sign

• Clue: Look up! There’s a famous sign for a brand of sherry that’s been a Madrid landmark for decades. Find this bright red-and-white sign and take a photo with it in the background.

3. Checkpoint 3: Statue of Carlos III

• Clue: Right in the center of Puerta del Sol, you’ll find a statue of a king on horseback. Who is he, and why was he known as the “best mayor of Madrid”? Take a picture and jot down the answer.

4. Final Stop: Casa de Correos and the Kilómetro Cero

• Clue: Time to find the most famous building in Puerta del Sol. This is where the New Year’s Eve countdown happens. Can you find the Kilómetro 0 plaque marking the exact center of Spain? Take a picture and post it

• When your group finishes, send a message in the WhatsApp group to notify Mike and me

Then continue with the second part of the Scavenger hunt "Part 2: Plaza Mayor Adventure: Discover Madrid's Historical Heart (11:30 - 12:30 AM) "

1. Checkpoint 1: Casa de la Panadería

• Clue: Find the most beautiful and colorful building in Plaza Mayor. It was once a bakery, but today it’s used for city events. Can you spot the unique frescoes on its façade? Take a picture of this building.

2. Checkpoint 2: Arco de Cuchilleros

• Clue: There’s a famous archway that connects Plaza Mayor to a smaller street. This arch was used by butchers in the past. Find the arch and walk through it, imagining what life was like centuries ago.

Answer:

• Why is the Arch of Cuchilleros so important and famous in Madrid? Can you name an American writer who frequently visited the cafés and bars around Plaza Mayor?

• Who was the famous Spanish painter who often walked through the Plaza Mayor area during the late 18th century? Can you find a picture of him and one of his famous paintings?

3. Checkpoint 3: Statue of Felipe III

• There is a statue of a Spanish king on horseback. This statue was a gift from the Duke of Florence. Find it and note down the year it was placed here. Bonus points for a picture!                                               Answer:

• Who was Felipe II, and what was his significance in Spanish history?
  

4. Checkpoint 4: Bar La Campana

• Find the popular Bar La Campana, known for its famous calamari sandwich. Take a quick picture of the delicious sandwich

Location: Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid

This is one of the most central and well-known squares in Madrid, easily accessible by public transport or on foot from nearby areas.

By Metro:

• Lines: Take Metro Line 1 (light blue), Line 2 (red), or Line 3 (yellow).

• Get off at "Sol" station—the square is right outside the metro exit.

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By Bus:

• Several bus lines stop near Puerta del Sol. Use Google Maps or the EMT Madrid app to find the best route from your location.

  
  

On Foot:

• If you're staying nearby (like in the center or Gran Vía area), it's a short and pleasant walk.

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Tips:

• Please arrive at Puerta del Sol by 9:50 AM.

• We will form groups and go over the instructions together.

• Keep your belongings secure—this area is lively and can be crowded.

• Use the Puerta del Sol clock tower (above the Post Office building) as a central landmark to meet our group.

  
  

• The scavenger hunt will begin promptly at 10:00 AM, so don’t be late!

Get ready to explore, observe, and enjoy!