Tucked away in Madrid’s iconic Parque del Retiro lies a secret that whispers both myth and art—an extraordinary bronze fountain crowned by the Fallen Angel. Perched precisely 666 meters above sea level (yes, you read that right!), this masterpiece by Ricardo Bellver is one of a must-see hidden gems in Madrid for anyone eager to travel as a local and explore the city’s hidden corners.
From Madrid to Rome… and back home.
Ricardo Bellver wasn’t your average sculptor. During his time in Rome, he absorbed the dramatic flair of Baroque genius Gian Lorenzo Bernini—a master renowned for breathing life and emotion into stone. Bellver fused Bernini’s dynamic energy with the grandeur of classical Hellenistic art and the passionate sentiment of Romanticism, crafting a work that’s as visually arresting as it is thought-provoking. His innovative approach now shines on many private art tours in Madrid, making his creation a highlight for historical tours and Madrid family travel adventures.
Inspired by John Milton’s Paradise Lost, Bellver reimagined the story of Lucifer—the once-favored archangel whose pride led to his dramatic fall—and transformed it into a poignant symbol of tragic beauty. With outstretched wings and an expression suspended between defiance and sorrow, the Fallen Angel invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between ambition and downfall, and to appreciate Spanish architecture and fine art in a whole new light.
Debunking Myths
The statue draws its inspiration from a passage in Canto I of Milton’s Paradise Lost, as noted in the 1878 National Exhibition catalog. The passage reads:
“For his pride he is hurled from heaven along with all his host of rebellious angels, never to return. His eyes cast about wildly, fixing blasphemous glares upon the empyrean, reflecting the deepest sorrow, the greatest dismay, fatal arrogance, and the most obstinate hatred.”
It is important to clarify a few historically misunderstood aspects—especially among occult aficionados and legend enthusiasts. This monument is not an exaltation or tribute to the Devil. On the contrary, the dramatic portrayal of the Fallen Angel represents the ultimate failure of evil. Every tense muscle and anguished expression speaks of the torment accompanying vices like greed, pride, envy, and hate. Bellver, a deeply religious man in an era when glorifying satanic imagery was unthinkable, even faced fierce criticism from those who deemed the statue blasphemous.
After the Spanish Civil War, the monument nearly fell into oblivion—not due to wartime bombings, but because of a 1941 recommendation by Manuel Escrivá de Romaní y de la Quintana, the Count of Casal. In his report for the City Council, he described the Fallen Angel as embodying “the spirit of rebellion at its utmost degree,” an idea the victors of a civil war were loath to tolerate. Ironically, this criticism came from individuals who had once rebelled against a legitimate government. An alternative proposal even suggested replacing it with the monument to Queen Isabella I on the Paseo de la Castellana. Fortunately for Madrid, these recommendations were not implemented, and both statues remain in their original locations.
Not the Only Hidden Gem of Its Kind
Another common misconception—often repeated by bloggers and tour guides—is that Madrid’s Fallen Angel is the only statue in the world with this theme. This isn’t true. Consider, for example:
- The Lucifer Sculpture atop the Monument at the Frejus Tunnel in Turin, Italy.
- El Poder Brutal in Tandapi (Quito, Ecuador), depicting the face of the Devil.
- The Rebel Angel Statue at the National Capitol in Havana, Cuba.
More Than Just a Statue
Set atop a stylish pedestal and integrated into a charming fountain designed by Francisco Jareño, this 2.65-meter-tall sculpture is more than a piece of art—it’s an experience. Just a short 10-minute stroll from the renowned Prado Museum, the Fallen Angel sits perfectly along a route ideal for historical tours. Whether you’re exploring Madrid family travel routes or joining private art tours, this hidden gem invites you to savor every intricate detail—from the tension in its chiseled muscles to the mythic allure of the serpent entwined around its form.
Try Some Story Travel Meditation
Imagine this: on a quiet evening in Retiro, as the golden hues of sunset bathe the sculpture in a soft glow, you might just feel like the Fallen Angel is sharing a secret with you. Perhaps it’s hinting at the location of the best tapas in town or recounting a tale of celestial romance and lost paradise. Close your eyes, feel the Spanish sunlight, listen to the locals, and let your imagination wander. Can you come up with a quirky story about this sculpture to tell your friends once you’re back from your Spanish holiday?
Why You Should Visit
If you’re planning a trip that lets you travel as a local and truly embrace the vibrant culture of Madrid, make sure the Fallen Angel is on your itinerary. Its blend of historical significance, artistic brilliance, and captivating myth makes it an enriching stop on any tour of Madrid’s rich heritage.
If you’re eager for more, let me be your guide! Set up a personalized consultation where I can help you organize your trip in advance and share invaluable insider tips and local secrets.
And why stop there? Join me for a leisurely stroll through Madrid’s enchanting streets, where I’ll reveal intriguing locales and hidden treasures that most tourists overlook. Along the way, we can indulge in delightful tapas breaks at authentic local spots.
