Celebrating World Tourism Day

Metro was born 100 years ago in Puerta del Sol, an emblem of Madrid, close to Plaza de la Villa and Plaza Mayor. Our history takes us to the most representative squares in the city. These are our favourites

In 1921, line 1 was extended to Atocha, passing though the square of Tirso de Molina (then Progreso station) and Antón Martín. One of the prettiest and least known squares in Madrid is tucked away here – Plaza de Matute.

And it continued to grow. In 1924, Puerta de Alcalá, in Plaza de la Independencia, bore witness to the arrival of L2 to Retiro station. Previously, the same line went through Plaza de Canalejas, stopping at Sevilla station.

In 1925, the underground arrived at Ópera station. From this station in Plaza de Isabel II, you can get to Plaza de Oriente, bounded by the Royal Theatre and the Royal Palace, or walk to Plaza de Ramales. Enjoy its terraced bars and restaurants.

The next line to open was L3, which took the underground to Plaza de España in 1941. Torre de Madrid and Edificio España have looked down on this square since the 1950s. The new viewing gallery here makes this space a key tourist attraction.

Plaza de Callao was inaugurated in the same year, a square that exudes life and culture. From there you can walk down towards Cibeles or take the side streets through Fuencarral and Hortaleza towards Plazas de Alonso Martínez and Chueca.

And our special recommendation is to get off at La Latina (L5), which opened in 1968, and enjoy the sites and terraces in this district, which hosts such squares as Plaza de la Cebada, Plaza la de la Paja and Plaza de los Carros. But above all, enjoy Madrid!