Lope de Vega, Cervantes and Fúcar closed this Friday for the kissing of the feet of Cristo de Medinaceli

Central Madrid will see notable changes to traffic during the first weekend of March. The traditional besapiés of the Cristo de Medinaceli, an event that brings together thousands of people every year, will require several streets to be closed from Thursday night until the early hours of Saturday. Those planning to move around the area will need to adapt their routes and allow more time for their journeys.

From 22:00 on Thursday until 05:00 on Saturday, streets such as Lope de Vega, Cervantes, Duque de Medinaceli, Jesús, Fúcar, Plaza de Jesús and Plaza de Cánovas del Castillo will remain closed to private traffic. The City Council recommends avoiding travel by car on these roads and seeking alternatives by public transport or on foot, especially for those who live, work or have plans in the Centro district.

The impact will be felt especially around the Basilica of Cristo de Medinaceli, where a large influx of worshippers and visitors is expected. The city once again adjusts its rhythm to make room for one of its most deeply rooted traditions, which every year marks the beginning of March in Madrid's cultural and religious calendar.

The Basilica of Cristo de Medinaceli, located in Plaza de Jesús, is one of the most emblematic churches in central Madrid. Its besapiés, held on the first Friday of March, attracts devotees from across the city and beyond, generating queues that surround the building and fill nearby streets. In addition to its religious significance, this event transforms the neighbourhood's everyday life and the mobility of those passing through the area for a few hours.