Puerta+del+Sol

=Puerta del Sol= Puerta del Sol is a very busy and popular section of Madrid. Puerta del Sol is Spanish for "Gate of the Sun." It is home to the widely known clock whose bells ring to mark the eating of the Twelve Grapes and celebrate the New Year. For over one hundred years, tradition has dictated that people eat twelve grapes at midnight on New Year's Eve - this is thought to bring a prosperous and healthy new year. This tradition started in Madrid, but has spread throughout the Hispanic world.

It has not always been a square, however. It was once a gate in the fifteenth century that got its name from the rising sun, which is why it is called Puerta del Sol. During the 17th through the 19th centuries it was an important meeting place.

During the day, the square is simply a regular route for pedestrians who are traveling to work. However, at night, life starts to evolve throughout the square. Bright lights flicker on the restaurants and stores that surround the plaza. A famous restaurant, Tio Pepe, is one of the many restaurants that line the square. It is recommended for those who have money to spend. Also, the Puerta del Sol once held a famous protest. This protest was started by French occupiers in May of 1808. Today, groups use this plaza to present speeches, protests, or anything under those lines.