Historic Discovery in Puerta de Alcalá Works: Remains of Madrid's Old Tramway

Renovation works around the Puerta de Alcalá reveal cobblestones and tracks from the tram system that operated in the capital until 1972.

Remains of old cobblestones and tram tracks discovered during construction work in Madrid.
IA

Remains of old cobblestones and tram tracks discovered during construction work in Madrid.

During renovation works in the vicinity of the Puerta de Alcalá, remnants of the old cobblestones and tram tracks that ran along Alcalá Street have been discovered, a finding that has been reported to heritage authorities.

The discovery, which includes ancient cobblestones and tram tracks, has been formally communicated to the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Community of Madrid. This notification was made through the archaeological supervision team assigned to the renovation work on the Madrid monument.
Despite this significant historical find, the renovation work in the area continues as planned. The discovered elements will remain in their original location until the regional body issues relevant guidelines for their management and conservation. The Madrid City Council is currently awaiting these instructions to proceed with the handling of the pieces.

"Today, during the works on Alcalá Street, the old cobblestones and tram tracks that surrounded the Puerta de Alcalá have appeared. As expected, in Almeida's Madrid, no trace of these historical remains will be left. Tomorrow there will be nothing left."

the Retiro Norte Neighborhood Association
Madrid's electrified tram system, which began operating in 1898, was a fundamental pillar of urban transport until its definitive closure in the summer of 1972. This mode of transport connected the city center with areas such as Plaza de Castilla and Arturo Soria, passing through Alcalá Street.