The Balconies and the Bells
What makes La Fonda de los Príncipes unique are its balconies.
Our balconies are the place where every year, on December 31st, different television networks broadcast the bells to ring in the New Year. Yes, throughout our lives, on New Year's Eve, we have enjoyed the broadcast of the bells from this place.
A place that brings back wonderful memories of one of the most emotional moments of the year. For as long as we can remember, we have all lived this moment with family, around the television, remembering those who have passed, and toasting to the future.
Being here is something magical.
In addition, you should know that La Fonda de los Príncipes has seen all the bells that have been celebrated in Puerta del Sol, as it is older than the bells themselves.
The bells began to be celebrated with the installation of the clock of the Real Casa de Correos, in 1866, five years after the original fonda was inaugurated. Since its installation, the clock of Puerta del Sol has been the most emblematic symbol for ringing in the New Year in Spain.
The clock is the symbol, and La Fonda, the best place to enjoy it. Every year, different television networks come to La Fonda to broadcast this very special moment with all of Spain.
Historical Curiosities of the Bells
- •The television broadcast began in 1962 by Televisión Española. Until then, they were broadcast by radio.
- •Every year it has been broadcast from Puerta del Sol, except for 1973 and 1983, when it was broadcast from Barcelona and Tenerife respectively.
- •In Spain, it is celebrated by eating 12 grapes, one with each bell. The tradition has been documented since the end of the 19th century, although its origin is unknown.
- •The bells ring every 3 seconds, to give enough time to eat the grapes.
- •In 1989/1990, Marisa Naranjo, presenter of Televisión Española, confused the quarter-hour chimes with the final bells, and many viewers began eating the grapes early.
- •In 1992/1993, journalist José María Carrascal wished everyone a happy 1963, instead of 1993.
- •In 1993/1994, José María Iñigo and Carmen Sevilla said "Happy 1994" before the bells finished. That same year, Irma Soriano, on Antena 3, got distracted talking and started late.
- •In 1996/1997, due to a technical error, they rang twice as fast as normal.
- •The record audience was achieved by Televisión Española in 2000/2001, with 10.55 million viewers.
- •Ramón García is the presenter who has presented the bells the most times, 20 times over four decades.