Monument to Castelar

The Monument to Castelar is a group of sculptures located at the Glorieta de Emilio Castelar roundabout on Paseo de la Castellana, combining bronze, marble, limestone, and granite into a complex arrangement. Multiple human figures surround the central structure, creating layers of sculptural composition.

The Monument was financed through public contributions from about 1,000 institutions across Spain, Mexico, Argentina, France, England, and Italy. This international support reflects the widespread importance attributed to Castelar as a political figure.

Three bronze figures representing a worker, a soldier, and a student climb stairs beside the central statue, symbolizing different social groups. Their arrangement suggests how various sections of society were meant to move forward together.

The monument stands in the center of a roundabout and is visible from multiple viewpoints along Paseo de la Castellana. Visitors can walk around it to view all sides of the sculptures, including the back reliefs and inscribed passages.

The back section displays a bronze relief showing the abolition of slavery, with figures breaking chains and shattering them. Castelar's words against slavery are inscribed in gold letters beside this scene.

Location: Madrid

Inception: 1908

Creator: Mariano Benlliure

GPS coordinates: 40.43514,-3.68849

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25