Cibeles Fountain in Madrid (Spain)

Description

Location: Madrid, Spain
Taken on: September 11, 2023
Format: JPEG
File size: 6.2 MB
Dimensions: 4096 x 3072 pixels
DPI: 300
Photographer: Andrey Kashukov, Cyprus

Photo can be used in posters, brochures, magazines, websites, blogs, business cards, applications, social media branding, packaging, postcards, notebooks, invitation backgrounds, flyers, banners, badges, stickers, collages, booklets, illustrations, etc.

Photo can be used in applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe XD, Adobe Express, Adobe After Effects, GIMP, Photopea, Krita, Pixlr E, Pixlr X, Paint.NET, Affinity Photo, Corel PaintShop Pro, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, Capture One Pro, Luminar Neo, Pixelmator Pro, ACDSee Photo Studio Ultimate, Affinity Designer, Procreate, Sketch, etc.

Madrid’s Majestic Cibeles Fountain

Capture the grandeur of Madrid with this stunning digital photograph of the iconic Cibeles Fountain, taken on a beautiful day in September 2023. Perfect for adding a touch of Spanish elegance to your digital projects, websites, or virtual backgrounds.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Madrid with this high-quality digital download of the renowned Cibeles Fountain. Photographed on September 11, 2023, under a clear blue sky, this image beautifully showcases the fountain’s magnificent Neoclassical sculpture, featuring the goddess Cybele on a chariot pulled by lions.

The vibrant greens of the surrounding trees and the delicate purple flowers in the foreground add a burst of color, while the jets of water from the fountain create a dynamic and refreshing feel. In the background, hints of Madrid’s elegant architecture and the Spanish flags proudly flying complete the quintessential Spanish scene.

This versatile digital photo is ideal for a variety of uses, including:

• Website and Blog Content: Enhance your travel blogs, cultural articles, or business websites with an authentic image of Madrid.
• Social Media: Create eye-catching posts for Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
• Digital Art Projects: Incorporate this beautiful scene into your graphic design or digital artwork.
• Virtual Backgrounds: Use it as a stylish backdrop for your video calls.
• Personal Use: Adorn your desktop, laptop, or tablet with a memory of Madrid.

Bring a piece of Madrid’s timeless beauty into your digital world today!

The Cibeles Fountain, or “Fuente de Cibeles,” is a magnificent neoclassical fountain located in the heart of Madrid, Spain. It sits prominently in the center of the Plaza de Cibeles, a bustling square at the intersection of several major avenues, including Calle de Alcalá, Paseo del Prado, and Paseo de Recoletos.

• Central Figure: The fountain’s centerpiece is a grand sculptural group carved from white marble. It depicts Cybele (or Cibeles in Spanish), a Phrygian (and later Roman) goddess of earth, fertility, and wild nature. She is shown majestically seated on a chariot.
• Lions: The chariot is pulled by two powerful lions, representing the mythological figures Atalanta and Hippomenes, who were transformed into lions. These figures add a sense of movement and strength to the composition.
• Details: Cybele is typically depicted holding a scepter and the keys to the city, symbolizing her authority and the city’s prosperity. The fountain’s base is often adorned with additional classical motifs.
• Design and History: Designed by architect Ventura Rodríguez and sculpted by Francisco Gutiérrez (for the goddess) and Roberto Michel (for the lions), the fountain was commissioned by King Carlos III in the late 18th century as part of his efforts to modernize and beautify Madrid. It was originally installed in a different location before being moved to its current, iconic spot in 1895.
• Cultural Significance: Beyond its artistic and architectural merit, the Cibeles Fountain holds immense cultural significance for Madrid. It has become a powerful symbol of the city itself. Most famously, it is the traditional gathering point for Real Madrid football club fans to celebrate their team’s victories. During these jubilant occasions, the statue of Cybele is often adorned with a Real Madrid scarf or jersey. It also serves as a location for national celebrations.
• Surrounding Buildings: The fountain is flanked by several impressive and emblematic buildings that contribute to the grandeur of the Plaza de Cibeles, including:
  • Palacio de Cibeles (Cibeles Palace): Formerly the main Post Office (Palacio de Comunicaciones), this stunning building now houses the Madrid City Council and a cultural center, CentroCentro. It offers fantastic views of the fountain from its rooftop terrace.
  • Bank of Spain Building: A grand and imposing structure.
  • Palacio de Buenavista: Currently the General Headquarters of the Army.
  • Palacio de Linares: Now home to Casa de América, an institution promoting cultural relations between Spain and Latin America.

The Cibeles Fountain is a truly iconic landmark, blending neoclassical artistry with deep historical and cultural roots, making it a must-see for any visitor to Madrid.