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Works in the very centre of Madrid reveal tram remains and force work to stop
The works on the new boulevard between the Cibeles fountain and the Puerta de Alcalá have taken an unexpected turn. Remains of the old tram tracks have been found beneath the asphalt, forcing a halt to part of the work in one of the busiest areas of the centro de Madrid.
The discovery includes sections of rails and cobblestones linked to the old tram system that once ran through the city. For now, these elements remain untouched while the Dirección General de Patrimonio Cultural decides whether they should be preserved, integrated, or removed.
Meanwhile, the project continues in other areas. The intervention aims to transform this key thoroughfare with less space for cars and more for pedestrians, public transport, and bicycles, in line with recent changes in urban mobility.
The new design includes reorganised lanes, a wide central promenade, and a segregated bike lane that will better connect with the Retiro area. Pavements will also be widened, new trees planted, and the surface completely renewed with more durable materials.
Beyond the redesign, one of the goals is to strengthen the role of this area as a space for walking and connecting key parts of the city. The intervention also aims to highlight the heritage, better integrating the Puerta de Alcalá into its surroundings and recovering part of its historic layout.
If you pass through this area, you may notice slower works or occasional changes while a decision is made about the remains. In the medium term, the project will make the route more comfortable for walking, with more space, less visual traffic, and better connections. In addition, the discovery opens the door to preserving part of the city's history in the very centre, something that could change how this area is perceived and enjoyed every day.